Two More Show Announcements! August 20th and August 29th
Two More Show Announcements - August 20th and August 29th!
With these two shows, all of our summer shows are now released! At least we think so! 😉
These two artists are both close to home, incredibly diverse in their musical skills and we are so excited to share them with you. Dates for shows are directly below, and more info about the artists follows!
Nate Silva - Thursday, Aug 20th
Lance Anderson - Saturday, Aug 29th
Tickets for these shows will go on sale tomorrow morning (Wednesday June 24th) at 10AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our artists featured in this newsletter!
Nate Silva
Nathan Da Silva (MA, BMus) has been an active performing artist and gigging musician throughout Canada and abroad for 20 years, specializing in guitar, vocal, and bass guitar performance. With close to 2000 career performances, some highlights include: the Toronto 2015 Pan Am and Para Pan Am Closing Ceremonies; over 700 gigs as a cover artist in the Toronto, Ottawa, and Muskoka markets; over 200 gigs with his original progressive rock band, The Slyde; and several tours with various artists as a freelancing musician. He played bass guitar for Canadian indie folk rock act, Reuben And The Dark, with performances at: Audiotree Live (Chicago), Hotel Café (Los Angeles), Mariposa Folk Festival (Orillia), The Calgary Stampede, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Canmore Folk Festival, and The National Arts Centre (Ottawa). Nathan was also an active member in the Franco-Ontarian music community, performing with such acts as LGS (Le Groupe Swing), Gabrielle Goulet, Yao, Cindy Doire, La Voix finalist Rebecca Noelle, and the late Paul Demers.
Canadian singer-songwriter Nate Silva is personified guitar rock nostalgia sifting through current 21st Century music trends. His 2024 solo album, "The Chase," reminds listeners of the glory days of 1990s alternative rock music, coupled with electric guitar flair and folk-inspired personal reflection. The album is regarded by critics as "the kind of talented pop rock you don't often hear these days," and described as "a calling card to his sensitive, tormented rock universe, supported by a pleasant voice." Indeed, Silva has come a long way from his prog rock and heavy metal origins, as frontman of Wacken Metal Battle Canada champions act The Slyde. Taking decades of experience leading creative projects and freelancing with notable touring acts like folk rock group Reuben and the Dark, Nate Silva innately channels a certain versatility in his new music, all while evoking the sentimental and often wistful sounds of the pop rock music of yesteryear.
To Learn more about Nate, check out his website: http://www.nathandasilva.ca/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Lance Anderson
Lance Anderson is a celebrated Orillian who has graced concert halls around the world. As a musical producer, arranger and world class musician, he has the uncanny ability of assembling some of the region's best artists, bringing them together to make beautiful music on stages around the world.
Lance is a Juno and Maple Blues award winning pianist, organist and composer. He is one of Canada’s top roots music producers with critically acclaimed recordings on his label Make It Real Records. We are so looking forward to this evening on August 29th, when Lance comes to share with us at Duke's Live Music. Get your tickets early so as not to be dissapointed.
To Learn more about Lance, just search online! There is an endless amount of show information out there for this talented guy who has shared his music with so many.
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
August 27 - September 5th - Tickets Going on Sale!
August 27 - September 5th - Tickets On Sale!
We’re releasing our shows from August 27th - September 5th. These will be the shows wrapping up our summer season! As we release these last tickets for the summer, we are getting ready to host Julian Taylor next Friday and Saturday for the first shows of the season! If you haven’t bought tickets yet, there are still a few left for the Saturday show - don’t delay, get them at this link!
Below are the shows that will be happening at Duke’s Live Music from August 27th to June 5th:
Tobin Spring - Thursday, Aug 27th
Christina Hutt (band) - Friday, Aug 28th
Old Man Luedecke - Thursday, Sept 3th
Paige Ballagh - Friday, Sept 4th
Garrett Mason - Saturday, Sept 5th
Tickets for these shows will go on sale FRIDAY, JUNE 19th at 7AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our artists featured in this newsletter!
Tobin Spring
Born and raised in Huntsville, Tobin has been bringing music to Muskoka since 2001.
Tobin returns to Duke’s this summer. Come ready to hear your favourite tunes, some great vocals and guitar rifs, and bring your favourite requests. The same voice you’ve likely sung along with in a Muskoka bar or pub, now bringing both the classics and his own originals to our stage. He’s been instrumental in lining up many of the artists you’ll see this season, some of whom he’s even taught, and he’s been working with Kathy to make this summer’s lineup one to remember.
Tobin’s set mixes the well-loved covers everyone knows with his own songwriting — songs you’ll recognize and new material you’ll want to hear again. Grab your tickets and join us for an evening of great music, community, and a chance to hear Tobin do what he does best.
“He’s one of the best guitarists around this neck of the woods. And he’s got the pipes to match.” - DopplerOnline.ca
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Christina Hutt
Christina can fill a room with her rich, resonant, out-of-this era voice and move
you with her honest, charismatic delivery. Once described as a full-bodied glass of red
wine, her sound is reminiscent of the soul-stirring vocals you would have heard flowing from a transistor radio in the late 50’s. You will understand why Hutt has been dubbed “the voice” in her hometown of Muskoka, Ontario. She welcomes you into the secrets of her heart with fierce passion and endearing spirit. Christina’s ease in a diversity of genres brings a captivating quality to her performances. The lyrics in her song “Cracks & Crevices” take you deep into the chilling darkness of emotional anguish while her tune “Fifteen Shades” makes you feel like you just might just be at a Patsy Cline Tribute Show. Her band features legendary drummer Gary Craig and lead guitar player Graham Powell, both known for their work with Jann Arden, Juno Award-winning blues artist Paul Reddick, and the exceptionally talented Tricia Foster. Together, they create a musical experience that is both electric and deeply heartfelt. Their undeniable connection—rooted in mutual respect and a shared love for music—radiates from the stage, drawing audiences into their world. This energy is reflected in the crowd, where every note and lyric becomes a shared experience of passion, nostalgia, and pure joy. Whether performing her original music, eclectic covers, or Christina’s acclaimed Spirit of Patsy Cline tribute show, the band’s synergy makes every performance an unforgettable journey.
To Learn more about Christina, check out her website: https://christinahutt.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Old Man Luedecke
Old Man Luedecke is the recording name of two time JUNO award winning and Polaris prize nominated singer songwriter Chris Luedecke. A multiple East Coast Music Award winner known for his high energy banjo driven stompers, touching guitar ballads and dry humorous stories, Luedecke has been making a soundtrack to an authentic life for nearly twenty years.
Born in Toronto and long time resident of the country near Chester Nova Scotia, Luedecke began recording in the early 2000’s DIY folk scene of Halifax. He made his two JUNO winning albums for Black Hen Music in the late 00s with Steve Dawson as producer at Vancouver’s famed Factory studio. While on a tour of England in 2009, he met and supported folk roots legend Tim O’Brien who produced Luedecke’s next two albums. Tender is the Night was recorded at John’s Prine’s Butcher Shoppe Studio in Nashville in 2012 and 2015’s Domestic Eccentric was recorded in a cabin Luedecke built himself at his home in NS. 2019 saw Luedecke recording Easy Money at both the Banff Centre in Alberta and at Hotel2Tango in Montreal.
Songs like “I Quit My Job” at the beginning of his career and “The Early Days” at the beginning of his family and dozens of other fan favourites trace a warm line of effort, sadness and joy and provide a soundtrack to many peoples’ own progress through adulthood, touching a rare place of truth and charm in the holiness of the mundane. His performing style with his easy going humour and storytelling creates a rare space of hopeful and intimate magic.
Luedecke has kept up many worldwide concert appearances, playing in Europe and around Canada and the USA and six trips to Australia, including a memorable tour where his whole young family travelled with him around rural Queensland for the Festival of Small Halls.
In May 2022 Luedecke was awarded an honorary doctorate from King’s University in Halifax for his cultural contributions.
To learn more about the Chris, visit his website at: https://oldmanluedecke.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Paige Ballagh
Ontario-born singer, songwriter, and poet Paige Ballagh performs original folk-pop rooted in storytelling, warmth, and melodic ease. She delivers an inviting, grounded live show shaped by performances across Canada, the U.S., and Ireland.
A former Summerfolk Youth Discovery Artist, Paige is also the author of Waking Up, an Amazon #1 best-selling poetry collection (2022). Her album Shoes Untied and EP Oh Maggie — recorded with Juno Award–winner Jake Charron — showcase her clear, expressive voice and lived-in songwriting. Balancing heartfelt lyricism with humour and human connection, Paige’s work bridges house-concert intimacy with festival-stage presence.
To Learn more about Paige, check out her website: https://www.paigeballagh.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Garrett Mason
Garrett Mason is a true bluesman at heart. He was raised in Truro, Nova Scotia by his mother Pam, and father, veteran Canadian Bluesman Dutch Mason. His quest to become a blues musician started at a very early age; being surrounded by blues music, Garrett’s favorite tapes at 3 years old were Canned Heat and Buddy Rich. What really sealed the deal for Garrett to become a blues guitarist came after watching a video of Stevie Ray Vaughn “Live At the El Mocambo” - he was hooked.
His dad, Dutch Mason, stopped playing guitar before Garrett was born due to crippling arthritis in his hands. Although he was not able to teach his son to play, he has certainly been able to teach Garrett the structure of the Blues and to influence him about the resulting sound. Surrounded by his father’s peers, Garrett has had the benefit of hearing and learning from a wide variety of musical talent. The late Rick Jeffery was a great inspiration to Garrett; they would talk and play for hours together. Rick once said “Garrett is the only guitar player I know that can play Albert Collins’ style down to a T”. The combination of his father’s advice, Jeffery’s guidance and his own natural talents provide that special brew for Garrett to become the musical influence he is destined to be.
Garrett would be the first to tell you that riding the coat tails of others won’t take you very far in this business, but striving to be truly original is the secret to longevity and lasting success. Garrett launched his debut CD I’m Just a Man at the 2004 Harvest Jazz and Blues festival in Fredericton, New Brunswick to a sold out crowd.
This debut CD features Garrett’s talent for strong original songs, a voice that is reminiscent of a veteran performer and his extraordinary aptitude for playing electric guitar. Garrett’s original talent was awarded in 2005 when he received a Juno for Best Blues Album. Garrett Mason is poised to be one of the brightest stars to emerge from the East Coast Blues scene in years.
Read LessGarrett’s band released their sophomore album Love and Sound in July 2008 which was nominated for a Juno Award. The album won Blues Artist/Group Recording of the Year at the 2009 Music Nova Scotia and Industry Awards.
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
August 13 - 22: Tickets Coming Up!
August 13 - 22nd - Tickets coming up!
We’re releasing our shows from August 13th - 22nd - only one more week of releases to go for the summer!
We were very busy this week getting the space ready for an industry night. We hosted our local musicians, who are playing with us this summer, to come and test our food and drinks. At the same time, we got some footage of us, and them, testing the space out for the season. We were so lucky to get a front row seat to preview so many of the talented artists from around the Muskoka area!
Below are the shows that will be happening at Duke’s Live Music from August 13th - 22nd!
Basset - Thursday, August 13th
Gina Horswood - Saturday, August 15th
Good Lovelies - Friday, August 21st
Zachary Lucky - Saturday, August 22nd
Tickets for these shows will go on sale SATURDAY, JUNE 13th at 7AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our artists featured in this newsletter!
Basset
Toronto-based folk duo, Basset, are full of timeless heart, with deeply human lyrics and stunning duo harmonies reminiscent of the early folk revival. Yasmine Shelton has one of those instantly recognizable voices that can dive, dip and soar all in a single phrase, while Sam Clark brings nuanced and tasteful support on guitar and other acoustic instruments.
Produced by Joshua Van Tassel, their Canadian Folk Music Award-nominated album In The Clay (2022) explores various themes of life in change, Shelton and Clark’s travels, and their lives growing up in opposite ends of Toronto. CBC Q’s Tom Power says “if you’re a lover of great close harmonies, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, I think you’re going to love this”.
Basset have toured heavily in the past year, including a three-month tour through Canada, the US, and the UK. Over this time they have developed a live show that is both sincere and disarmingly funny, with warmth enough to soothe anyone ready to lean in. They are making plans for a tour across Canada early in 2025, and a return to the UK and EU in the spring. They have plans to release an EP in summer 2025, with the first single “Sail On” out now.
"If you’re a lover of like great close harmonies, like Simon and Garfunkel, or Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, I think you’re going to love this." —Q with Tom Power, CBC Radio
"Vocal harmonies and acoustic melodies that would soothe any weary traveler... It was pure joy" —Sonja Nelson, No Depression
"A really impressive début album." —International Americana Music Show
"The folk harmonies, though, are what really won my heart over with this song. The duo remind me a little of the Milk Carton Kids blended with a Rawling Welch style as well. It's an outstanding sound [...] Close your eyes and listen; I bet these harmonies will give you chills." —Ear to the Ground
"What I love about Basset is that with each song they release we are guaranteed to listen to dreamy harmonies packed with raw emotion, instantly connecting the listeners to their storytelling. [...] lush, acoustic guitar riffs, subtle bass and their stunning vocals & harmonies that together create such a heartwarming and soothing touch perfect for an introspective, relaxing day at home alone." —Caesar Live N Loud
To Learn more about Basset, check out their website: https://bassettheband.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Gina Horswood
Australian singer-songwriter Gina Horswood bought a one-way ticket to the other side of the world in 2011 and has spent the decade since crafting distinctive songs & her sound, all inspired by her nomadic life. Gina’s debut “Our Way” , penned with sister Melanie, was released in 2006 and boasted two Top 10 country singles in Australia. The duo extensively toured East Coast Australia and shared bills with multiple Aria-winning artists Kasey Chambers and Pete Murray. In 2009, Gina’s first solo album, “Crazy Brilliant Mess” , received critical acclaim, with the video for her single “Ordinary Girl” reaching the top 50 on the national Country Music Channel charts.
In 2013, Gina followed the troubadour tradition and travelled to Nashville, Tennessee, where she collaborated with renowned songwriter and producer Jim Reilley (The New Dylans, cuts by Vince Gill, Sam Bush) to create The Nashville Sessions EP. After that release in 2014, Gina continued touring North America, opening for acts such as Dana Fuchs (Across The Universe, Suzie Vinnick (10X Maple Blues Award winner, 3X Juno Nominee), and Basia Bulat (2013 Polaris and Juno nominee) to name a few. Inspired by her experiences around the world, Gina recorded “Porcelain” in 2015, with Canadian producer Andre Wahl (Hawksley Workman, Shania Twain). Musicians on the project included Tom & Sly Juhas (Banners, Jadea Kelly), Rich Levesque (Blue Rodeo, Melissa McClelland) and Robbie Grunwald (Jill Barber, Coco Love Alcorn). After touring across Australia & Canada for over two decades, Horswood settled in the woods of Northern Ontario and wrote her latest release, “Bare Bones” (2020), which debuted at #3 on the iTunes singer-songwriter chart. The album is a collection of onetake, acoustic tracks that document Horwood's experience with mental health, recovery, and the fragilities of being human.
Gina joined us last year in 2025 for a debut performance at Duke's Live Music, and we are thrilled to have her returning in 2026, again with incredibly talented bass player, Brandon Munday.
To Learn more about Gina, check out her website: https://ginahorswood.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Good Lovelies
Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Susan Passmore are Juno Award-winning songwriters and multi-instrumentalists known for their rich harmonies and nostalgic sound. Blending folk-roots, old-time swing, bluegrass, pop and soul, their music is perfect for any setting.
The Good Lovelies played at Duke's back when it was still an operating boat shop. We pushed the boats to the side and enjoyed a sold out show over the water. We've been asked year after year when we'll do it again, and 12 years later, they are back!
To learn more about the Good Lovelies, visit their website at: https://goodlovelies.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Zachary Lucky
Zachary Lucky is an award nominated Canadian songwriter celebrated for his timeless blend of folk, country, and rootsmusic. Hailing from the prairie province of Saskatchewan, Lucky crafts songs steeped in place, memory, and the quiet resilience of everyday life. His warm baritone voice and evocative storytelling have drawn comparisons to Gordon Lightfoot and Kris Kristofferson, while his authenticity and dedication have earned him a loyal following across Canada and the world over.
The grandson of Canadian country music pioneer Smilin’ Johnnie Lucky, Zachary continues the family legacy that proves the apple truly doesn’t fall far from the tree. For more than 15 years, he has built a reputation as one of the hardest-working independent songwriters in Canada’s folk and roots scene, often performing well over a hundred shows each year. A seasoned road veteran, in the past 18 months alone Lucky has toured extensively across Canada, completed multiple European tours (Ireland, the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany), a run of dates in Japan, and a 35-date coast-to-coast tour of the United States.
His album, The Wind, released on November 1st, 2024, amassed over half a million streams within its first few months and received rave reviews from international publications. KLOF Magazine (UK) hailed it as “up there with the best, alongside Guy Clark, Tom Rush, and Townes Van Zandt,” while Great Dark Wonder wrote, “The Wind deepens Lucky’s growing reputation as a laureate poet of the rootless and restless, the lonesome and forsaken.” Bandcamp also featured the album in its Best of November 2024 list, noting, “Lucky’s resonant baritone feels like a soft and comforting pillow, and the strums of his acoustic guitar sound so close, you’ll swear you’re inside the thing. All of this is a good match for the Canadian troubadour’s patient country-folk tunes about the irresistible lure and aching solitude of life on the road.”
Already praised as a master storyteller by outlets such as No Depression and The Globe and Mail, Zachary Lucky stands among the foremost voices in contemporary Canadian roots music and has safely reserved his spot at the table of Canadian roots royalty.
Zachary Lucky returns with his new album The Lost River Sessions available everywhere February 27th 2026.
To Learn more about Zachary, check out his website: http://zacharylucky.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
July 30 - Aug 8: Tickets Available!
July 30 - Aug 8 Tickets going on sale!
We’re releasing our shows that are crossing into August, and I have to tell you, at this point - we’re getting pretty excited about these shows actually starting! Below are the shows that will be happening at Duke’s Live Music from July 30th - Aug 8th - that you do not want to miss!
Todd & Robyn - Thursday, July 30th
Danny Michel - Friday, July 31st & Saturday, August 1st
Jack Gaughan & Adina V - Thursday, August 6th
Cody Ellis - Friday, August 7th
Elliott BROOD - Saturday, August 8th
Tickets for these shows will go on sale FRIDAY, JUNE 5th at 7AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our artists featured in this newsletter!
Todd & Robyn
We’re thrilled to have local musicians, Todd & Robyn, at Duke’s Live Music this summer. They have been hosting some incredible shows at Chapel Gallery in Bracebridge, and if you haven’t checked them out - you should. Watch for “An Evening With” events at Chapel Gallery, and you’ll be in for a treat.
Simple songs for a simple life. That’s the guiding principle behind the music of Todd & Robyn, a husband-and-wife duo.
With soulful harmonies, Robyn’s lively tambourine, and a blend of folk and Americana influences, Todd & Robyn create music that’s down-to-earth and heartfelt. They’re currently recording their debut album at home and planning a fall tour in Canada’s East Coast.
To Learn more about Todd & Robyn, check out their website: https://www.toddandrobyn.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Danny Michel
Jeremy and I first saw Danny Michel at Mariposa Folk Festival in Orillia in 2019 (I think), and have been hooked on his music ever since.
The only good thing about not shopping in record stores like we used to is that you don’t have to figure out what genre to look for Danny under. If that were the case, you could try searching under rock, pop, folk, world, or even classical. His own self-described musical A.D.D. has kept his music fresh for decades.
Maybe it has something to do with being born next to a candy factory, but his thoughtful lyrics and charming performances have earned him a devoted fan base, multiple Juno nominations, Polaris Prize nominations, CBC’s Heart of Gold award, and wins for the CFMA’s Producer of the Year and Oliver Schroder Pushing the Boundaries awards.
His adventurous musical spirit has led him on unique journeys, from recording and touring with The Garifuna Collective (from Belize) to recording an album aboard a Soviet-era icebreaker in the Arctic while on an expedition with astronaut Chris Hadfield. Albums like Matadora and Khlebnikov explore themes of human connection, the environment, and the cosmos.
Beyond music, Danny is passionate about social causes. He founded the DM Ocean Academy Fund to support a non-profit high school in Belize. His charm, creative performances, and wide-ranging interests have made him a beloved figure not only in music but also in charitable and environmental circles. This has led to unique performances, including playing at Jane Goodall’s 85th birthday, David Suzuki’s 75th + 90th, and touring with Stuart McLean’s Vinyl Cafe.
To Learn more about Danny, check out his website: https://www.dannymichel.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Jack Gaughan and Adina V
Last year, we were so lucky to get to hear Jack Gaughan’s incredible vocal and guitar skills at Duke’s Live Music. This year, the show will be a duo, featuring Jack Gaughan and Adina V, both solo artists who come together as the duo “A Soft Place to Land”.
> Adina V
Born and raised in Mississauga, Ontario, Adina’s love of music was evident from a very young age. A childhood full of weekly piano lessons, school choirs, musical theatre camps, guitar clubs, and plenty of self-guided musical exploration led to her attending Cawthra Park Secondary School for their Regional Arts Program, followed by Humber College. There she majored in Vocal Performance, graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Music in 2022.
Adina’s time at Humber was spent honing her craft, diving into the theoretical and practical pursuit of various genres including jazz, folk, pop, R&B, rock, country, and Latin American repertoire. She remains a mesmerizingly versatile vocalist, marrying a pure, inviting tone with agility and technical prowess. Alongside being a professional singer, Adina is a multi-instrumentalist, earning her RCM 9 Piano, playing both acoustic and electric guitar, and even dabbling on the mandolin! She is also an accomplished songwriter, with multiple songwriting awards and the 2022 MARTY Award for “Best Emerging Solo Vocalist”.
The past few years have seen Adina hard at work writing, performing, recording, and releasing music in the GTA and beyond, with collaborations in Toronto, Nashville, Montreal, and Vancouver Island, to name a few. This passion and dedication led to nominations for both Musician of the Year and a Fan’s Choice Award at the 2023 Mississauga Music Awards, as well as the 2nd place prize in the Verse 2 Voice songwriting competition in 2024.
>Jack
Guitar and vocal virtuoso Jack Gaughan is an incredibly talented and hardworking guitarist, vocalist and producer. Born and raised in Huntsville, Duke’s has already had the pleasure of hosting Jack for a show in 2025. Don’t miss this chance for a night full of incredible harmonies while Jack is joined by Adina V for this show to be remembered.
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Cody Ellis
Returning to Duke’s Live Music for a second year, make sure you buy tickets early as this show is sure to sell out again this year.
Cody Ellis is a Virginia-born, Toronto-raised singer-songwriter whose official public debut took place in 2021 with the release of his first solo album Good Medicine — the culmination of a lifetime spent writing and recording his own music.
Influenced by a range of artists across the folk, blues, country, and rock canons — from Townes Van Zandt and John Prine to The Band and beyond — Cody’s Americana-infused signature sound and heartfelt lyrical approach simultaneously pays homage to the greats that came before while continuing to forge a path ahead for the generations to come.
Hot off the heels of his third full-length album Covered By The Song, recorded in Nashville, Cody’s momentum is now at an all-time high as he prepares for his biggest year yet, with plans to collaborate with a wider range of talented musicians as well as put on a slew of live shows for his diverse and growing fanbase.
To Learn more about Cody, check out his website: https://www.codyellismusic.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Elliott BROOD
“Doing it the hard way for 20 years,” is a badge Elliott BROOD wear with honour. Two decades on, work, life and love have taken the trio in many directions, away from their hometowns and headfirst into an ongoing musical journey through distance and time. Now, after being members of this band for nearly half of their lives, Elliott BROOD is never more at home than in the wash of distorted, evocative strings and stomps that make their signature alt country sound.
Elliott BROOD appeared on the cover of Exclaim Magazine in 2008 as the new ambassadors of a roots, folk rock and alt country wave that flourished in Toronto’s early aughts. Elliott BROOD’s arrival came with a level of buzz that launched them directly into the heart of a vibrant Toronto scene that centered at label Six Shooter Records, where they have returned to release their newest music. Their live show, a maelstrom of frenetic energy and fuzz, has brought them back and forth across continents countless times on bills The Sadies, Wilco, The Black Crowes, and many more. Their albums, meticulously crafted, detail-packed collections have brought some of Canada’s highest musical honours and awards, including an early Polaris Music Prize Short List and a JUNO Award.
In their twenty years, the band has remained fiercely loyal to their mysterious namesake. The stylized, imaginary character has guided the band’s travels over mountains and meadows, and through the more harrowing sides of history. Elliott BROOD has grown into a vessel for the trio’s shared history too, with new songs finding connection and communion in themes that hit much closer to home. With smile lines and guitar fingers long hardened with callouses, Elliott BROOD has been doing it the hard way, but making it sound easy.
To Learn more about Elliott BROOD, check out their website: https://www.elliottbrood.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
July Part 2: So many shows!
July 16-25 Tickets going on sale!
We’re now releasing our shows that are a bit later in July, so stay tuned so as not to miss out! Coming up for the evenings of July 16-18 and July 23-25 we are thrilled to host…
Sean Cotton - Thursday, July 16th
James Gray - Friday, July 17th
Angie Nussey - Saturday, July 18th
Isla-Maria - Thursday, July 23rd
Russell deCarle - Thursday, July 24th
Craig Cardiff - Saturday, July 25th**
Tickets for these shows will go on sale FRIDAY, MAY 29th at 7AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
** Craig’s show will go on sale SATURDAY, MAY 30th at 7AM at the same link
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our “July Part 2” artists a bit more!
Sean Cotton
We have yet to meet Sean in person, but we are excited to do so! After hearing so much of his music on the radio, and after many reports of great shows and story telling, we know this will be such a great experience.
Known for his original songs about Muskoka, Sean Cotton brings the campfire experience to the concert stage. After retiring from a 20 year career on the road and in the studio as a guitar player and harmony vocalist with performing-songwriting duo The Undesirables, Sean has settled in the village of Burk's Falls, Ontario where he operates a recording studio producing artist, recording his own albums as well as working as a jingle composer for radio.
You can see Sean performing solo from Gravenhurst to North Bay, from Kearney to Parry Sound. These performances are a highly revered one-man band experience, with Sean filling out the back beat of the music with his feet by performing percussion on a tambourine adorned guitar case.
To Learn more about Sean, check out his website: https://seancotton.ca/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
James Gray
We were so lucky to have James join us last year for two shows, and thrilled he’s returning again this summer. James is currently touring in Europe, and over the winter he toured for his second time in New Zealand.
James Gray is a contemporary version of an old-school traveling folk singer. In the past decade, Gray has toured throughout Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand seeing the world and sharing his beloved songs along the way. A unique finger style guitarist, with a vocal that is hauntingly beautiful, Gray, often accompanied by a rather droll, humorous stage patter, immerses himself in each and every song with a soulfulness and attack that is infectious and disarming.
James has released four albums, the most recent in 2025 entitled “Daydreamer”, with his first show on his album release tour right here at Duke’s. In 2019 James won himself a spot at The Mariposa Folk Festival through their showcase auditions. James has since been invited to perform at 5 Mariposa folk events, The Northern Lights Festival Boreal, 2 Troubadour Festivals and the Muskoka Music Festival in James’ home of northern/central Ontario.
Gray has recently returned home from touring throughout Switzerland, Germany and Austria. This past festival season James was invited to perform at both the Northern Lights Festival Boreal and the Mariposa Folk Festival where he had the honour of warming up the main stage for Bruce Cockburn.
To Learn more about James, check out his website: https://www.jamesgraymusic.ca/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Angie Nussey
Last year we were blown away by Angie’s live performance. Her vocals, and her skill in overlapping sounds, voice and instruments and drawing the crowd together created such a night to be remembered.
Angie Nussey is a Sudbury-born, shaped in Toronto, and now Orillia-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with eight albums of original music and more than three decades on stage. Her songs blend folk, blues, and a touch of rock — carried by a soulful voice and lyrics that dig into the beauty, humour, and resilience of everyday life.
Muskoka locals might recognize Angie from her energetic cover shows around the region, but at Duke's, she’ll be sharing her own writing - the eclectic mix of story-driven songs that have earned her national recognition both as a solo singer/songwriter and as a member of the trio Boreal, whose latest album was nominated for three Canadian Folk Music Awards.
To Learn more about Angie, check out her website: https://angienussey.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Isla-Maria
Born in the small town of Bracebridge in Ontario, Canada, Isla-Maria grew up in a household that encouraged creativity, honing her craft since she was only three years old and appearing in countless productions ranging from musical theatre to competitive dance. She is a lover of R&B, pop, rock, hip-hop, and everything in between.
Isla-Maria is a rising force in the music world, delivering genre-fluid, emotionally charged songs that cut through with rare authenticity. Armed with a natural gift for songwriting and an emotive voice that balances raw vulnerability with striking depth, she creates music that feels both intimate and fearless. Her work captures the beauty and chaos of growing up, pairing emotional honesty with bold sonic experimentation that resonates far beyond her years.
Isla-Maria is joined by her father, Jed Corbeil, who is a seasoned musician himself as well as being a local business owner and involved community member.
To Learn more about Isla-Maria, check out her website: https://islamariaofficial.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Russell deCarle
Award winning Prairie Oyster co-founder Russell deCarle captivates audiences with his warm, unmistakable voice and genre blending style, bringing a rich mix of country, jazz, and soul to the stage. Russell will be joined by long time friend and stellar guitarist Steve Briggs.
No stranger to Canadian and International audiences,Russell deCarle is recognized as lead singer of award-winning, multi-platinum country-roots group Prairie Oyster. For nearly two decades, he has concentrated on his solo career, and has released four solo recordings, the most recent being The End of The Road.
deCarle’s music isn’t easily categorized. Apparent is a lifetime of influences absorbing a wide range of musical genres from a time when Buck Owens, Frank Sinatra and The Beatles could be heard back to back on commercial radio.
deCarle’s warm, burnished, and intimate voice has always honoured an eclectic range of songs. True to form the songs of his most recent albums The End of The Road and Alone in This Crowd offer a fluent collection that mixes southern soul and restrained balladry with obvious touches of jazz, old school country, and western swing.
To Learn more about Russell, check out his website: https://russelldecarle.com/
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Craig Cardiff
Join Craig Cardiff in concert. Come ready to sing, dance, and become part of the show. Everyone comes as strangers and leaves as a group. Folk music, singersongwriter, canadiana / americana - label as needed. Four chords and the truth, capo’d as required. Invite your friends and enemies - they all need to be there. Juno / Canadian Folk Music award Nominee, streamed often, and 100% fan powered.
THREE SHOWS IN ONE DAY!
Craig would love to have as many people as possible join in and enjoy the music, and the experience, and so, we are hosting him for three shows. Tickets are SOOO reasonable to come to see Craig, so don't delay as we expect all three shows to sell out quickly. Bring your friends, your parents, your kids, your date, your neighbour or just buy tickets for someone who doesn't get to experience live music regularly.
All shows are GENERAL ADMISSION, Licensed and All Ages, so come for Doors Open Time to choose your seats. Tickets available for purchase online. If you're not able to purchase online, please email us at dukeslivemusic@gmail.com and we can arrange an etransfer instead.
Ticket link: www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
July Part 1: Josh Taerk, Colin Linden, Karla Crawford
Tickets on sale for the first shows of July - Josh Taerk, Colin Linden, Karla Crawford.
We’re into July for our ticket sales, and we’re excited to let you know who’s coming and give you a bit of a background on them. Here are the next few dates!
Josh Taerk - Thursday, July 2nd
Colin Linden - Thursday July 9th
Karla Crawford - Saturday July 11th
Tickets for these three shows will go on sale FRIDAY, MAY 22nd at 7:00AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. Not on our newsletter? Sign up now!
Please read on to get to know our “July Part 1” artists a bit more!
Josh Taerk
Josh Taerk reached out mid-winter with an interest in playing at Duke’s Live Music.
Josh Taerk (pronounced Terk) is a Billboard Top 40 charting Country Rock singer/songwriter, an official Recording Academy/Grammy voting member, and Country Music Association professional member.
His gift lies in is his ability to tell stories that feel like a shared experience. His soul-stirring lyrics, emotive melodies, and electrifying live shows foster a community of fans stretching across the globe.
Continuing and expanding on the traditions of the troubadours and songsmiths that came before him, Josh’s brand of Country Rock combines catchy melodies with heartfelt storytelling that lifts people up, inspires positive change, and encourages his fans to come together as a global community.
To Learn more about Josh, check out his website: https://www.joshtaerk.com/
Tickets will go on sale FRIDAY, MAY 22nd at 7:00AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
Colin Linden
When we found out that Colin Linden was playing with his band, Blackie and the Rodeo Kings nearby, we jumped at the chance to have him play at Duke’s while he will be in Ontario. Born in Toronto, Canada, and raised in White Plains, New York, Colin Linden returned to Canada in 1970. He was already a guitar prodigy at 11 years old, and when most kids that age were playing sports, Colin was meeting and being mentored by one of his musical heroes, the great bluesman Howlin’ Wolf, which helped set the youngster on a course to pursue the sounds of his dreams. That encounter helped fuel a career that has featured his work on literally hundreds of albums. At last count, the total of recordings on which he has played approaches 400, while over 100 albums bear the “Produced by Colin Linden” credit. Colin Linden. It is all about the Blues and the best music.
To Learn more about Colin, check out his website: https://colinlinden.net/
Karla Crawford and Glenn Bladon
Karla is one of MANY talented artists in our area, and we are so happy to be able to fit into her high demand schedule! Karla Crawford is an interactive singer-songwriter from Midland, Ontario, known for her powerful vocals and remarkable ability to captivate an audience. A true entertainer, she brings energy, warmth and charisma to every performance.
She began her career as a Demo singer in Nashville and spent 12 years writing, performing and recording. For the past 15 years, Karla has been performing throughout Canada and the United States. She has shared the stage with notable artists including Vince Gill, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban among others.
Karla will be joined by talented guitarist and vocalist Glenn Bladon at Duke's Live Music and we hope you’ll be there to enjoy the show with us!
June 26th Show - Julian Taylor!
Award-winning, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Julian Taylor at Duke's Live Music.
We’re thrilled to announce ticket sales for our first show of the season. Julian Taylor is coming to Duke’s Live Music in Muskoka on Friday, June 26th at 8pm and you can be one of 50 people sitting in the audience of what feels like it could be his living room.
If you’re on our newsletter email list, you’ll get 24hrs to buy tickets before they go public. We’ll send you out a private link in advance so that you can buy tickets. With only 50 seats, we want to make sure that those who support us do have a chance to go to the shows they pick. We’ll also do our best to make it so as many as possible can come and enjoy the space as possible by hosting 30 shows over the course of the 10 week summer!
Without further ado, please meet our first artist if you don’t know of him already.
We first saw Julian Taylor playing during the day at the Mariposa Folk Festival in Orillia last year (2025). His song, Seeds, had us hooked, and we loved listening to his stories and perspectives. He promptly got added to the “wish list”. Later that night we got to sing along with him again while he was on the main stage with Serena Ryder. This show will be an incredible experience for all of us there.
Julian Taylor is a Toronto-based, award-winning independent singer-songwriter, radio host, and label owner. Over 20-plus years as the leader of Staggered Crossing, Julian Taylor Band, and his solo work, Julian established himself as one of Canada’s great troubadours. He has earned five JUNO nominations, a pair of Canadian Folk Music Awards, five Native American Music Award nominations, and a nomination for the Polaris Music Prize.
"Taylor is a unique and important voice on the Canadian roots-and-folk scene.”- The Globe & Mail.
"Among Canada’s most premier songwriters. Ultimately, Taylor remains unparalleled” – Spill Magazine.
To Learn more about Julian, check out his website: https://juliantaylormusic.ca/
Tickets will go on sale FRIDAY, MAY 15th at 7:00AM - on our website at www.dukeslivemusic.com/2026-shows
2026 Summer Lineup!
Introducing Duke’s Summer 2026 shows!
**** THIS HAS BEEN UPDATED TO REFLECT THE FEW MODIFICATIONS TO THE LINEUP, ALL OF OUR SHOWS ARE BOOKED AND TICKETS ON SALE - GET YOURS FAST BEFORE SHOWS SELL OUT! *****
Introducing Duke’s Summer 2026 shows!
There are still a few more shows we’re excited to announce - but we just couldn’t keep these shows to ourselves anymore!
Tickets go live soon, to be the first to know, join our mailing list!
James Gray - Friday October 10th
Don’t miss our show next Friday October 10th, James Gray is doing an Album Release Tour and we’ll be among some of the first to hear these new songs and stories.
We wanted to send out a message with a reminder about next Friday’s upcoming show for those who haven’t bought tickets yet - it will be our last show for the season.
James Gray played on July 18th as one of our early shows this summer. This fall, he’s releasing a new album and we’re going to be among the first to hear the new songs and stories before he heads over to New Zealand later this winter.
Show will be 8-10pm as usual. Friday October 10th. It’s a great way to start the Thanksgiving weekend!
🍁🍁🍁 🍂🍂🍂 🍁🍁🍁
September Newsletter
Thank you for an amazing summer! First Summer - 13 Shows - Zero Regrets!
As our first summer winds down and as we look forward, we want to shout:
<<<THANK YOU!!!>>>
from the building tops (or from the internet and in person as much as possible) to all of you that have supported this live music venue in our community. This summer we hosted 13 shows, 6 of which were sold out! We had so many nights where we left to walk home thinking, “for real this time, this one really was the best yet”. We love the energy that comes from sharing live music together with YOU! So many of you have helped out by sourcing furniture, providing moral and physical support and attending so many shows. Well…..MORE TO COME!
Since our last Newsletter, we’ve had Cam Galloway, Joel Plaskett, Kenny Munshaw and Tobin Spring play.
Cam played to a sold out show after having to re-book from earlier in the season.
The whole gang with Joel Plaskett, Sound Tech Steve Smith and brother Brian. Two incredible shows! L-R: Steve, Jeremy, Brian, Joel, Kathy, Candice, Jim, Robin.
Kenny Munshaw playing to a sold out show. This show sold out immediately when it was posted….so don’t delay next year!
A few younger audience members at Tobin’s 3rd show this summer at Duke’s - also sold out!
Our September Shows
In just over a week, we have Old Man Luedecke coming to play. If you’d like to come to this show - don’t delay in purchasing tickets - as of today we are 60% sold out!
On September 19th, we are hosting our first Private Event. Gina Horswood will be playing for a lucky group that have booked the space for the night. We know what you might be thinking…… “So does this mean I could book my OWN show for an artist of my choosing!”. Well, in short - yes! If you’d like to book a night as a special event, or with an artist you’ve long wanted to see up close - get in touch and we can help make it happen.
Stay Tuned for October
A great picture from James’ first show at Duke’s this summer.
James Gray is coming to play on October 10th for his first show of an Album Release Tour. More details on the new album to come…but really, if you want to learn more - come to the show! Tickets go on sale Friday Sept 12th at noon. James played at Duke’s in July as one of our first shows, and shortly after got in touch to book this October date for his tour. We think that means he likes the space. Good thing, because we like him!
We’ll also be reaching out in October to hear from you as we look at booking shows for 2026. So…do your homework, and get your requests ready! We have a growing list already, plus we have so many that we’d like to have back. So stay tuned for our October Newsletter where we’ll be asking for your suggestions and ideas.
Thanks again for a great first summer ❤️ There’s a reason that we love this town.
Comin up!
There are so many good things happening we’re having trouble keeping up with the blog posts! Last weekend we had our first sold out show with Angie Nussey, with many more to come!
There are so many good things happening we’re having trouble keeping up with the blog posts! Last weekend we had our first sold out show with Angie Nussey, with many more to come! It was just a great show. Some of Angie’s long time fans were there and said “This is the best venue we have ever seen Angie at!”
The weekend before last, we had the pleasure of meeting and hearing Gina Horswood. Who knew so much talent was right here in our surroundings!?? We do now! Gina was incredible and we were so lucky to have her playing as a duo with bass player and vocalist Brandon Munday. We can’t wait to have Gina and Angie back next year!
Check out the pics below from the two shows, and if you’d like a little peak into the space if you haven’t been yet - have a listen to some fun with Angie Nussey as she has some fun looping some tracks below.
Angie Nussey playing to a full house
Gina Horswood accompanied by Brandon Munday
Up Next!
Up Next is Cody Ellis, playing tomorrow, Saturday August 9th. If you don’t have tickets, I’m sorry but there are only 2 left….looks like it will be another sold out show.
Then - on TUESDAY August 12th, Cam Galloway is playing. His show is 70% SOLD, so if you’re planning on coming, now is the time to get tickets!
Next Thursday August 14th and Friday August 15th, we are so thrilled that Joel Plaskett is coming! His Friday show is sold out, but thursday is at around 30% SOLD - so get your tickets if you don’t have them yet!
A week later, on Thursday August 21st, we are so lucky to have Kenny Munshaw coming to play - our piano is getting tuned on Monday before hand!! This show is SOLD OUT, so we hope you already have your tickets!
On Friday August 22nd, we are so looking forward to having The Fretless featuring Madeleine Roger come to Duke’s Live Music. This group is incredible, with 4 String players and a vocalist. A supergroup of celebrated solo artists, The Fretless has been creating a singular and signature sound that dares to expand the idea of what a string music quartet can be—transforming fiddle tunes and folk melodies into intricate, beautiful, high-energy arrangements that have quickly gained a dedicated following and accolades from around the world. We have been looking forward to this show all summer. We can’t believe we are going to have this whole 5 person group playing for us over the water as the sun is setting. You will never forget this show. Check out this video for a taste of what’s coming….and get your tickets early so you’re not disappointed!
For our last show of the summer, we KNOW this will sell out, and we can’t wait to have him back - we are again welcoming Tobin Spring on Thursday August 28th. If you haven’t been to see one of his shows here, it’s not too late. Get your tickets here!
Fall Preview
We are booking a few shows for the fall and wanted to give you a heads up before we even post them! Details to come soon on those that aren’t posted yet.
Paddy James will be joining us while he is here for a week from the UK, travelling and playing at a friend’s wedding. How lucky are we! He’ll be playing on Thursday September 11th - details for this show to be posted soon. We just solidified this today!
Right up after Paddy will be Old Man Luedecke on Friday September 12th!! Who’s he….well you’d better check him out. We have listened to so much of his music over the years. Here is a little glimpse into this artist. His tickets go on sale Friday August 15th at noon, so mark your calendars and get tickets for Old Man Luedecke’s show.
Also…this is not quite public yet, but word on the street is that James Gray is releasing a new album! He played at Duke’s Live Music in July - and he’s COMING BACK! He’s coming on Friday October 10th, which is Friday of the thanksgiving weekend, and he’ll be playing at Duke’s as the FIRST SHOW of his new album release tour! We cannot wait! Tickets aren’t posted for this yet either, but they will be soon!
There are a few other things brewing for the fall…but for now we are just enjoying these shows happening now - it is going so quickly!
Can’t wait to see you out at a show again soon! Thank you SO much for your support, and your contribution to the live music, local and from away!
Weekly Recap
A little recap on two more great shows, and next week’s show.
Words and pictures can’t do these shows justice. If you haven’t come to check out Duke’s Live Music, it’s time. Thanks for the nights Luke Crans and The Pub Band, and James Gray.
Here are a few pictures from our last two shows, and a look at our upcoming shows. If you have any pictures from the shows you’d like to share - please send them our way! 705-765-1939, info@dukeboats.com
OUR NEXT SHOWS
Friday, July 25th, 2025
Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm
After touring Australia & Canada for over two decades, Horswood settled in the woods of Northern Ontario and wrote her latest release, "Bare Bones" (2020), which debuted at #3 on the iTunes Singer-Songwriter chart.
Gina Horswood has become known as one of the most talented entertainers in Muskoka, switching seamlessly from her own music to classic and pop standards, much to the delight of the audience. Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
Saturday, August 2nd, 2025
Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm
Angie Nussey is a seasoned artist with a diverse portfolio that includes 7 original albums and the celebrated book “I Have No Idea What I’m Doing.” She began her musical journey in Sudbury, Ontario, studying opera and piano while also delving into biochemistry and performing with a rock band for 3 years. In 2001, she relocated to Toronto, Ontario, where she embarked on a 15-year musical touring journey. Angie now resides in Oro-Medonte, Ontario, and continues to evolve and enrich her musical career.
Her musical prowess has earned her numerous accolades, including Best Female Performer at the Toronto Independent Music Awards and recognition for Best Country Song in the Great American Songwriting Contest. Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
What’s With This Place??
So we hear there’s a new live music spot in town. But what is it really? What’s the deal? When are they open? Who’s playing?
We know you’re wondering.
Okay - so we’ve had lots of people asking us about when we’re opening, who’s playing, and what we’re up to. Well - we wanted to share that with you.
We are offering something that we’ve been longing for. It is for us, our friends, our kids, our community and our artists!
What we’re doing.
Put simply: We want to celebrate artists and give them a venue to play where we get to interact with them, be close, share their music, get to know them. This venue is for The Artist. This venue is for The Listener. This venue is for the experience of shared art and music. To inspire. To connect. Yes, to drink and eat too, we have lots of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, cheese boards and desserts - but this is to enhance the experience of the music.
When you come and see our solo artists or bands, you will be sitting in essentially what seems like sitting in the living room with them. You get to see them up close, interact with them, joke back and forth, hear their stories and songs.
And what is all this like for the artist? Equally incredible. They get to interact with you. They get to share their music, share their stories, and best of all, everyone is listening.
Take a chance. Come and check out a show and support these incredible artists, and give us the ability to keep doing it.
Check out our upcoming shows:
https://www.dukeboats.com/live-music
Generally our shows are Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays - but it all depends on who we book and when they are available. So check the schedule to be sure!
COMING UP THIS WEEK
Thursday, July 17th, 2025
Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm
Luke Crans and his band will be joining us for a night to be remembered. Luke is a local singer/songwriter who will play tunes that you know and love, as well as originals in this intimate 49 seat venue. You'll feel like you've joined the band in their living room for a great night of music.. Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
Friday, July 18th, 2025
Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm
James Gray is a contemporary version of an old-school traveling folk singer. In the past decade, Gray has toured Canada, Europe and Australia, seeing the world and sharing his beloved songs along the way. A unique finger style guitarist, with a vocal that is hauntingly beautiful, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
Grand Opening and Shows!
Grand Opening on Thursday July 10th, 6-7pm. Tobin Spring Show Thursday July 10th, 7-10pm, Friday July 11th, 7-10pm.
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
Thursday July 10th, 6-7pm
A new live music venue is open in Port Carling. This 50 seat gathering location is host to incredible live music for small audiences. Wait until you see how intimate this space is, you’ll feel like you are in the artist’s living room.
Come and gather inside the old boat shop on Thursday July 10th from 6-7, ribbon cutting at 6:15. Rather than building boats, come to enjoy local brews and beverages, cheese platters and desserts, and best of all, incredible live music in an intimate venue.
RSVP to the Chamber if you will join for the big cut (andi@muskokalakeschamber.ca). Then stay for the Tobin Spring show, with doors open at 7, and show at 8pm, tickets available online.
Two Great Shows This Weekend!
If you came to the show on June 26th, you’ll know why you don’t want to miss this one! This Thursday and Friday we have two great shows lined up for you. This is not background music in a bar - this is an experience to be a part of. Share in supporting these artists and in supporting live music. Come early for a beverage and a bite, or enjoy some desert at intermission. Hear some of your favourite tunes, and come ready to request, and also enjoy originals by the artists.
THURSDAY JULY 10th, Doors 7pm, Show at 8pm
$20 Ticket - Reserve Seats Online
FRIDAY JULY 11th, Doors 7pm, Show at 8pm
$20 Ticket - Reserve Seats Online
First Show - Tobin Spring
First show in the new space! Tobin Spring on June 26th.
Well, as is always the case - it was a scramble to have the space all cleaned up for the first show on June 26th. The last day was a mad dash to get everything cleaned, setup and ready. It all came together, and other than soliciting friends (who were the first in the door with tickets) to clean their own glasses and enough glasses for everyone else, we were as ready as we were going to be!
Thought I’d post a few pictures of the first night - as we are prepping for show number 2 tomorrow night, Cam Galloway.
To checkout our upcoming shows as they are posted, stay tuned here - https://www.dukeboats.com/live-music
Joel Plaskett At Duke’s Live Music!
BIG Show Announcement! Later this summer, the one and only Joel Plaskett will be joining us for two back to back shows. Tickets won’t last long, so mark your calendars - tickets go on sale July 4th at NOON!
We are over the top pumped to announce that Joel Plaskett is coming to Duke’s!
We are still on a high from our first show with Tobin Spring last night, and as we gathering pictures to post, we don’t want to delay letting everyone know this exciting news.
For over three decades, Joel Plaskett has proven himself a spinning wheel of reinvention. The Nova Scotia songwriter's eclectic body of work reveals a restless and playful spirit, always transforming and expanding.
Joel will be playing TWO shows with only 49 seats each.
Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
Tickets go on sale NEXT FRIDAY JULY 4TH AT NOON!
Check out all our upcoming events HERE
New Show Posting!
New Show Posting - Cam Galloway, July 3rd, 8pm. All Ages, Licensed event - doors open at 7pm.
Thursday, July 3rd, 2025
Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm
Come dig some local talent with country musician Cam Galloway from Bracebridge, Ontario. Cam will kick off an early start to the Canada Day long weekend at Duke's in Port Carling. Cam is a singer/songwriter, and current finalist in the Country Rising Talent Competition. Come ready to hear some of your favourite tunes, and hear some new favourites written by Cam himself. Buy tickets in advance to choose your seat and reserve your spot, as space is limited.
Tickets to go see Cam will go on sale on Friday June 27th at noon - so set your reminders to get your tickets!
The Week Before The Week Of
Plumbing, electrical, inspections and ordering!
It’s getting real.
As I write - I can hear the plumbers downstairs, and I’m surrounded by a collection of chairs, sound equipment, fridges, sinks and tools. Today it has been raining all day (as you know), but all the pieces are starting to come together, which they better be, our first show is next Thursday!
This space has been many years in the making. Since Jeremy and I purchased Duke’s in 2011, we’ve been planning for some live music in the building. As our kids have grown to be 14 and 11 years old, they have brainstormed with us as to how and when the music will come to Duke’s.
In 2014, we hosted the Good Lovelies for a one-time concert in the then-active boat building space. This show was inspired by Wendy Nicholson, who had hired Craig Cardiff to come and play at Kerr Park for her birthday. I loved the idea. And so, though it was definitely not my birthday (since that’s in February), we had the Good Lovelies come and do a concert just for the enjoyment of it. As a sound check, they did a little 30 minute concert for our kids, their kids and some other kids in the area (ours were 3yrs and 1yr old at that time). The main show later that night was for a sold out audience of 85 people, catered by Grand Electric.
As we get the space ready for our first show next week, I thought I would start a news feed, to track the progress, document the shows, and help us remember the history of the space in years to come.
Today and tomorrow, we have Fixtures doing the plumbing for the new washrooms, the kitchen and the bar. Last week we had Klos Concepts doing some electrical for us so that we have receptacles to plug in the various lights we are putting together, and to power our sound equipment that we picked up last week from Currie’s Music.
I’m sitting down now to get our first food orders in for next week for when Tobin Spring is coming to kick it off for the summer. We can’t wait to celebrate with those that join us next Thursday. Many have asked - tickets go on sale tomorrow at noon!
Thanks for following - let us know any requests for acts in the comments and we’ll see what we can do!