Special Guest – Dave Kelly

Our special guest in February 2027 is the incomparable Dave Kelly, a man with over half a century of Blues experience under his belt, including backing John Lee Hooker & Howlin' Wolf, with The Blues Band for 47 years and playing with more famous names to boot!
For this very special event we are running two 75 minute performances - one at 7pm (doors open 6pm) and one at 9pm (doors open 8:30pm). You are very welcome to come to both and if you buy tickets for both houses we will refund you 5 on the night.

Dave Kelly was a founder member of The Blues Band with Paul Jones, Hughie Flint & Tom McGuinness, and Gary Fletcher forty seven years ago! In April 2025 he was awarded a 'Lifetime Achievement' by the UK Blues Federation Awards committee. In the 80's he was voted 'Acoustic Artist of the Year' for five consecutive years. When The Blues Band started back in 1979 Dave was already a seasoned blues artist with a reputation across the world. In the early sixties he started performing acoustic, mostly Mississippi style blues, in folk clubs. His first performance was a floor spot at The Half Moon, Putney in 1964 - a session run by Gerry Lockran, Cliff Aungier & Royd Rivers. In 1966 he went to the USA and played at Gerde's Folk City in New York. On returning from the States he joined The John Dummer Blues Band as lead vocalist and guitarist. It was with The Dummer Band that he made two UK tours backing John Lee Hooker and one with Howlin Wolf. After leaving the John Dummer Blues Band late in '69 he went back to solo performing and toured and recorded with the legendary Eddie 'Son' House. Since then he has recorded TV themes and film scores and backed Buddy Guy and Junior Wells in concert as well as appearances at The Vancouver Island Festival with Albert Lee and James Burton. He currently regularly works with Ben Waters, and also with Lou Stonebridge when in France and UK gigs with The Dave Kelly Band. Plus, of course, continues his long standing partnership with Paul Jones as an acoustic duo. Dave has always loved playing solo concerts - and recording with his own band The Dave Kelly Band. Dave released his album on Hypertension Records entitled: Dave Kelly - Family and Friends. Featuring tracks with various family and friends recorded over the past 40+ years. Guest include: Jo-Anne Kelly, Eric Bibb, Long John Baldry, Maggie Bell, Chris Barber, Jona Lewie, Christine Collister, Chuck Leavell, Paul Jones, Howlin Wolf. His most recent release SUN ON MY FACE on Repertoire Records includes material with his close friends Paul Jones, Lou Stonebridge, Steve Simpson, Rob Millis, Sam Kelly and Pete Emery.

To allow for the expected demand for tickets, this special event will comprise two 'houses' on the same evening. When booking, please take care to ensure you select the correct timed performance. But don't worry, you have up to three days before the event to change your mind (subject to availability). To select both houses, click on the Continue Shopping button prior to checkout. Any problems, call TicketSource on 0333 666 4466 or contact Harborough Blues via email - info@harboroughblues.com.
A limited food menu is available in the form of pre-prepared meat or vegetarian platters, sandwiches, or a plate of ribs with spicy chicken wings. These should be ordered at least 48 hours before the event, preferably by emailing louisasplace4a@gmail.com (or calling 01858 322024). Louisa's is a fully licensed beer, wine and cocktail bar. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available here.