“Midnight, because the music seems threaded through the keyhole of that lovely, lonely, magical hour, and Microphone, because it sounds like the tunes tumbled through a condenser microphone into a place where smooth, rich vintage tones are cradled within the space between the notes.” - Mary-Lynn Wardle
— The Scene Magazine, Calgary, 2023
Welcome to the on-line home of Calgary based musician, blues guitarist & singer/songwriter John Rutherford.
I am thrilled to be nominated this year for a YYCMA in the Blues Recording of the Year category for my record Midnight Microphone. I am very proud to be amongst fellow nominees Erin Ross and Mark Dillon who have both released very fine recordings. The big awards gala will take place September 29 at Event Centre at Grey Eagle Resort & Casino. It is sure to be a grand celebration of Calgary's vibrant music scene.
Heading out to a few spots in Alberta to spread the word including a big night in Edmonton on Friday October 13 at one of my favourite venues The Blue Chair. I've not been to the capital in a long time so really excited to get on the road with the trio. 
Very excited to be performing at the big event this summer here in my home town, and to see my name on the poster amidst such a stellar line up of some of the best blues artists from across Canada and around the world. My time slot is 1pm Saturday August 5 on the main stage. Get your tickets now! https://calgarybluesfest.com
To see the complete Roots Music Report's Top 50 Canada Album Chart follow the link below.
https://www.rootsmusicreport.com/charts/view/album/country/canada/weekly
The recent radio charts from Roots Music Report are out and I am thrilled to say that my new recording Midnight Microphone has made the list. In fact it is on three different charts! It entered the Top 50 Blues Album Chart at #46, the Top 50 Contemporary Blues Album Chart at #21 and incredibly my record currently sits at #2 on the Top 50 Canada Album Chart. The most amazing part for me is looking at these lists and seeing my recording alongside so many great artists. You can follow the links below to the various charts and see the complete lists of artists with recordings that are currently charting.
And, it's released! The new EP Midnight Microphone dropped earlier today! Streaming everywhere. Listen on Apple Music, Spotify and many other platforms.
I've been in the studio recently working on a new four song EP that is due for release in the days to come. The project is produced by legendary guitarist Tim Williams and engineered by Steve Gerard. Also on the sessions is a “Western Canadian Wrecking Crew” rhythm section with Thom Moon on drums and Bill Price on bass. The new work will be streaming everywhere and we'll have some physical product as well. I'll be announcing soon some live shows around the province of Alberta to celebrate the release. Can't wait to share some new music.
Pleased to share some really great video footage. The filming took place at The King Eddy in Calgary back in October when we performed an opening set for guitar great Amos Garrett. The shoot was made possible by the diligent and highly skilled folks at the National Music Centre and was part of The Story Tellers Oral History Project sponsored by ATB Financial. Thanks to all involved. Check out my video page.
