Biography

The story of Blackburn Brothers is one of music, history, and deep familial roots. A band of brothers in the truest sense, their sound is forged in heritage, passion, and purpose, carrying the legacy of generations before them. Led by Duane (lead vocals, organ, piano), Brooke (guitar, vocals, songwriting), and Cory (drums, harmony vocals), the band also features their eldest brother Robert (guitar, vocal harmonies, songwriting) and cousin Nathan (bass guitar) on recent studio recordings. Their longtime horn section includes Neil Brathwaite (tenor saxophone) and Ted Peters (trombone), with Andrew Stewart as their touring bassist.

The brothers carry a musical lineage, tracing back to their father, Bobby Dean Blackburn, an R&B legend whose influence on the Toronto music scene has spanned over six decades. Their music is not just about sound—it’s about storytelling, heritage, and the spirit of the blues.

Beyond the music, other history runs deep. The Blackburn Brothers are 4th-generation Canadians, descended of freedom seekers through the Underground Railroad and settling in Southern Ontario. The Blues that the Blackburn Brothers create is part of their inheritance, and always about a message of history, freedom, legacy, family, Black unity, and love. 

The Blackburn Brothers have shared the stage with some of the world’s most iconic artists, including Mavis Staples, Dr. John and The Nite Trippers, Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, and Cedric Burnside. They have also performed alongside top Canadian musicians such as Sarah McLachlan, Colin James, and The Bros. Landreth. Their ability to seamlessly blend blues, soul, and funk has made them a standout at major blues, jazz, and folk festivals across North America and Central America.

SoulFunkn’BLUES (Sept 2023) has received international acclaim, marking a milestone for Canadian blues. 

• 2024 Won the Blues Blast Award for Soul Blues Album
• 2024 Earned a JUNO Award nomination for Blues Album of the Year
• 2024 Received three American Blues Music Awards nominations—the first Canadian band to do so—including Album of the Year, Soul Blues Album of the Year, and Song of the Year
• 2024 Achieved a record-setting nine nominations at the 2024 Maple Blues Awards, including Entertainer of the Year and Electric Act of the Year

Their dedication to excellence has also earned them numerous Maple Blues Award nominations over the years, including:

• Electronic Act of the Year (2024, 2022)
• Drummer of the Year – Cory Blackburn (2024, 2022, 2020)
• Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year – Duane Blackburn (2024, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2015)
• Guitarist of the Year – Brooke Blackburn (2024)
• Male Vocalist of the Year – Brooke Blackburn (2024)
• Entertainer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Recording of the Year, Producer of the Year (2024)

In addition to these recent accolades, the band was inducted into the Canada South Blues Society Hall of Fame (2023), recognizing their contributions to Canadian blues and their role in amplifying Black artists' voices in the music industry. Their impact has been further recognized through strong local support, including significant airplay on CBC Radio and JAZZ.FM91 naming SoulFunkn’BLUES its 2023 Album of the Year.

With a history rooted in resilience and a sound that bridges the past and future, the Blackburn Brothers continue to redefine Canadian blues and honour their heritage. Their music is more than a performance—it’s a legacy, and a tribute to the power of storytelling through sound. As they continue their journey, they remain committed to celebrating history, uniting communities, and keeping the soul of the blues alive for generations to come.