Contact
George!
George Olliver Guestbook
Thank you for your Guestbook entries!
George truly loves to hear from you.
Just click on "Sign Guestbook" below to send a
guestbook email to George:
Tricia Clarkson –
June 25, ‘08
Hi George,
Thank you for giving me your business card but it didn't
have your email address on it so I am sending this to your webmaster.
I just wanted to thank you again very much for your great
live performance for Homegrown Homes' Fundraiser on Sunday, June 22nd at The
Dobro in Peterborough. There was a great write-up and picture in The
Peterborough Examiner the next day that I could send you by mail if you like. I
also took three really great pictures with my Pentax camera that I could send
you as well.
Thanks again for such a great performance--especially the
break dancing and inviting my two girlfriends up on the stage with you to sing
Mustang Sally. You are a great inspiration to the rest of us baby boomers. I
want to be just like you, George--62 going on 16!
We raised $1,700 from The Super Summer Fundraiser that will
help provide affordable housing to those in need and create awareness to our new
Green, Affordable Housing 4-Plex at 220 Edinburgh St.
I would love it if you could perform again for Homegrown
Homes next year. What a great way to start off the summer!
Thanks again, George. Hope to see you again soon at The
Dobro.
--
Best Regards,
Tricia Clarkson
Research and Resource Development Coordinator
Homegrown Homes
705-876-0174
tricia.clarkson@gmail.com
Sharron – June 9,
‘08
Hi George,
Just wanted to say
HI...and thank you for
yesterday at the Blue Goose.
Maybe
you will remember me... Sharron. tall, blonde...geat personality... we
were talking at the food-stand after your performance. I have seen you
perform many times at various places throughout TO...
Always
love when you come to the Goose. I will be keeping tabs on your summer
activities and looking for place you are entertaining. Hope to see you
soon...you don't get out our way...often enough.
Have a
great summer....bye for now
Sharron
devinelady@sympatico.ca
Susan Stanley –
June 4, ‘08
Hey,
It's nice to see that George is going to playing
close to home. Plan to go down and see him with friends at the Chicago
Diner on the 30th of June in Oshawa. Seen him a few times when I was
attending college in Toronto back in the day-so to speak, won't say what day;
none of us want to date ourselves to we? LOL
Anyway, was always a class act. Looking forward
to re-living the experience of seeing Mr.Oliver-LIVE.
Thx and regards,
A fan,
Susan Stanley
sue.henry1@rogers.com
Sue Herdman – May
6, ‘08
Hey George!!
Checked out your website
again and would love it as a personal friend if you autographed a copy of you
"live at the Bluenote" cd. I will forward a cheque tomorrow and hope you
and Pat and kids are well? Living in Ajax now, saw you are coming to Pickering
... right on!!!
Love,
Sue Herdman
sueherd@rogers.com
Phil King – April
7, ‘08
Saw you yesterday at Chaps in Burlington, having been a fan
back in the 60's and 70's.
While the place is still building and needs to draw bigger
crowds, I was really impressed with your voice and showmanship. I see you're
playing the Carrigan later this month and will be sure to come by...I'd love to
see you play to a bigger, more energetic crowd.
It's nice to see your level of talent and professionalism
regardless of the venue. Jimmy's band also did a great job!
Phil King
phil@okd.com
Cheryl – April 5,
‘08
Hey George:
I'm new at this computer stuff so couldn't connect directly from your site.
Wow, where do I begin. How bout' 1963-65 at the Mimicombo? I went roller
skating every Sun. afternoon and of course "The Five Rogues." Sometimes with
Shawn Jackson I believe. Remember pin-stripe stove pants? I had a bad family
life so I really looked forward to Sun. You guys were awesome. I always like
R&B, my Mom played Ray Charles all the time.
I
moved to Peterborough, Ontario in 66'. Low and b ehold you guys now the "Mandala"
played at the Memorial Centre. I was so proud of you guys going to LA with
"Opportunity"
So
very sorry to hear about Dom. He really had a great career. Very talented guy!
I
see your playing at the Dobro in Ptbo. I live way out in the country now about
60 miles from Ptbo but I will try to make it. You must have a connection with
someone there?
Just wanted to let you know you guys were part of my past and very good
memories.
Truly yours
Cheryl
cskitch@netzero.net
Allan Svensson –
March 27, ‘08
Hi.
I found your Website by Yahoo! And I wish you the best
you can get, the peace of God through Jesus Christ.
Welcome to visit my Site.
http://www.algonet.se/~allan-sv/INDEX.HTM
Allan Svensson, Sweden
allan-sv@algonet.se
Brooke Carole –
March 23, ‘08
Technology! What happens when you google people? I just
stumbled upon this site and voila.
Cheers from "Carcky"
carolebrooke@shaw.ca
Mary Shibley –
March 4, ‘08
Hi George,
We sure miss you Women's week at Blue Mountain, it's just
not the same without you. So many of the women that have been skiing Blue for
years still remember you and Bobby at the Inn dancing to your renditions of
James Brown, Righteous Brothers, Jackie Wilson, Wilson Pickett and Sam and
Dave.
Some of us are trying to get together to come see you on
March 21, I didn't realize that that was Good Friday but we shall see what we
can do.
Take care now,
Mary, a good friend of the Yodel Ladies
marod@primus.ca
Jan Alan Henderson
– Feb 24, ‘08
Dear Sir,
Forty-one years ago, I saw you and the Mandala on stage at
the Hullaballoo. Needless to say, it made a tremendous impression on my friends
and myself, and we tried to catch all of your shows when you and the Mandala
would come to Los Angeles.
I later found out, after the 1966 engagement at the
Hullaballoo, that the band's strobe light had been unaccountably taken from you,
the one that Mellow Camello Palumbo had built especially for the Mandala. The
next year you came to town, I arranged to have your strobe light returned to
you, and was successful.
Those were great days, and you and the Mandala provided the
sound track for our youth.
My question to you is, I have read on the Internet and heard
through friends that the Mandala album containing the two singles for KR Records
has been available on CD. I have scoured the Internet including eBay and
Amazon.com (which is wehre I obtained some of this information) but have been
unable to find it either in cyberspace or in record stores. A couple record
store owners tried to look it up for me, but got nowhere. I would imagine from
this information it would have been released in Canada, and that no domestic US
release has taken place. Have you any idea where I might obtain this, through a
Canadian dealer or website? My copies of the singles and LP have long since
worn out!
Thank you so much for your consideration in this matter, and
I hope that your musical career is ongoing and successful, and rewarding for you
as well.
Thanks for all the great music.
Jan Alan Henderson
jahenderson7728@sbcglobal.net
Daniel Sneddon –
Feb 23, ‘08
Hello George –
I was wondering if you ever hear from the other members of
the Mandala – Joey, Don Elliot, Whitey Glan? Also I know you did a couple of
shows in the past with Grant Smith. Is he still performing?
It is just amazing how long you have been in the business
and what a book you could write on your experinces. I hear you have a very
extensive scrap book. I look forward to seeing you at one of your shows soon.
All the best to you and your family,
Dan Sneddon, Waterloo
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
Dorothy O’Brien –
Feb 22, ‘08
I was so-o-o-o disappointed that I missed your performance
at Dobro in Peterborough Feb. 10th. When I saw your name as special guest for
the event, I got so excited. You see, I was one of those crazy teenage girls
who used to follow the Mandala and the Rogues ( I think that was the name of
your other band ) around Toronto in the 70's ( was it really the 70's? ).
That's when Dom Troiano (sp?) was your guitarist ( awesome
). I have a fond memory of seeing you at the old Simpson's store in Toronto (
really ? ) and when you traditionally tossed out your white satin tie to the
girls in the crowd, I caught it at the same time another girl did.
Of course we 'fought' each other for it ( more like a tug of
war ) and had to be separated ( not violent, I assure you ). We each ended up
with half of the tie. I kept that thing for the longest time! I still have one
of your old 45's ( not sure of the title - I'll have to dig it out of the moth
balls - couldn't play it anyway - no turntable and no insert for 45's ).
Sorry to ramble on down memory lane. I'll seriously have to
check out your current stuff. I still love R & B and blues here in
Peterborough now.
Love,
Dorothy O'Brien
ozzieslap@hotmail.com
Daniel Sneddon –
Feb 21-22, ‘08
Hello George,
I was on Ebay last night and there was a poster on the
Mandala listing from a trade magazine in the states introducing your first
single record reease from 1967. Very interesting …
It is for the release of Opportunity, it is stateside. It
is from the photo you used in the group for promo. When you joined Markowitz as
“The Mandala.”
Dan Sneddon, Waterloo
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
Frank Jaehne – Feb
5, ‘08
Hello George,
It
was a bit of work to research the internet finding out the "head" behind
"Natural Gas" - an lp I have heard the first time this noon and was very
impressed. What happend with the other members? Couldn’t find any
infos about them.
With best regards
frank / germany
jaehne@uni-mainz.de
Jim Marsh – Jan 28,
‘08
Hi George,
Saw your concert at Greenbank on Saturday night.
Man, what a show! You still got it, George, I’m still stoked. You must be
livin’ right.
Keep on truckin’!
Jim Marsh
marsh@ibc.ca
Mike Spivey – Jan 4, ‘08
Hey George, glad to hear your still kicking up
the stage dust and beltin' out the tunes. Your god daughter says hi and is
now the mother of 2. Write me at
mspivey@chiphospitality.com
Mike Spivey
MSpivey@chiphospitality.com
Bill Robinson –
December 5, ‘07
Hi George, I just heard a performance by the Montréal
Jubilation Choir. Have you ever performed together? If not I think it would me a
perfect match.
Sharing wonderful inspired music.
http://www.jubilationchoir.com/
Bill from Hamilton
(Old buddy of Neil Nickafor)
brobinson@dapc.ca
David and Maureen Williams – December 2, ‘07
Hello George,
Thanks for a
rockin’ good night at Thom Vincent’s birthday bash. We’ve always enjoyed
seeing you since the Club Bluenote days, and you’ve retained your fantastic
stage presence still. We were looking on your website for any upcoming
performances in January or February. What do you have planned?
Warm Regards,
David and Maureen Williams
lwr@sentex.net
Sonya Esquijarosa –
Nov 29, ‘07
Hi George:
Really enjoyed your performances at Roc 'N Doc's and at Louisiana's
in November. Thanks for doing the splits!!!
Will you be performing anywhere on New Year's eve? Thanks.
Sonya Esquijarosa
Assistant to Barbara Miller and Stacey L. Stoneham
Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP
Barristers & Solicitors
Patent & Trade Mark Agents
Toronto, Ontario
http://www.fasken.com
sesquijarosa@fasken.com
Tel:(416)
868 3500, ext. 2338
Fax: (416) 364-7813
Muriel Hutchinson –
Nov 28, ‘07
George, I loved our night out at the Rock 'N
Doc's. Look forward to seeing you at the Joso's up in Blue, get it booked.
Signed your ever loving Generator Fans.
Murielhutchinson@aol.com
Nicholas Jennings – Nov 27, ‘07
Thought you and the George Olliver website
readers might be interested to know that
Shakin' All Over: Canadian Pop Music in the 1960s, the documentary
that aired last year on CBC featuring George, Domenic Troiano and countless
other Canadian stars past and present, comes out on DVD commercially on Dec. 11,
with plenty of bonus interviews and a portion of sales going to MusiCan, the
music education charity of CARAS.
Here's the link:
http://www.capitolmusic.ca/artist_page_disco.asp?artist_id=1476&upc_id=5099951461195
Please spread the word!
Thanks,
Nicholas
nicholasjennings@sympatico.ca
Eva Yang – Nov 26,
‘07
Hi George
Thanks for a wonderful night, you have a great
voice .... I hope to see you at another venue in the future.
With regards.
Eva and Marian.......the blond sisters.....
Lousania Grill
eva555@rogers.com
Rick Barber – Nov
19, ‘07
Please send my compliments to George, we saw him
in Montebello Quebec in the summer and he brought back some great sounds and
some beautiful memories. I had a chance to talk with George at the event
and he is still a great guy to chat with. We discussed recording a Gospel song
I had written, if George would like to explore the song please give him this
e-mail address or call direct to my cell.
Best Regards,
Rick Barber
Cell: 416-456-1498
richardb@compow.com
Mike Hillsley – Nov
13, ‘07
Hello George -
We all had a great time hearing you and the gangbusters on
Sunday afternoon at the Liquid Lounge in Brantford. The place was jammed to the
hilt and you put on a superb show, full of energy, impressive moves and
first-rate songs performed by first-rate musicians.
Keep up the good work and keep us informed of your schedule
and location of up and coming gigs.
Best Regards,
Mike Hillsley
info@teff-line.com
Italo Marti – Oct
31, ‘07
Hi George,
The first Time I heard you was with Mandala back in the
60’s I was in High school…at that time ….That band Rocked..... it was ahead of
its time…….The last time I saw Mandala was
In 1969 at the Hawks Nest…..Dominic was playing
this sanded down telecaster hooked up to a Lesilie……..Awesome sound….I will
never forget it. Keep playing for the Lord……….He’s coming soon…..
God Bless You
Italo
imarti@rogers.com
http://www.architecturalplan1.com/soulman.htm
Bob Kane – October
27, ‘07
Hello George;
I haven't heard any of your songs in a very long time.
Are you the same band that recorded" Loveitis"? I seem to remember that
was one of my favorite songs. It's great that you have found the LORD.
My wife and I are both Christians. I gave myself to the Lord a while back
and that's the best thing that anyone could ever do. May the Lord bless
you and your family and your singing career.
Bob
martian_man54@yahoo.ca
Daryl Auwai –
Oct 15, ‘07
Hey George,
Haven't seen or heard you in twenty years. Sure do miss the
Blue Note days!
Daryl Auwai,
Whistler, B.C.
hailrasta@telus.net
Ted Zahara -
October 5, ‘07
Hey George.
Just had to drop you a note to tell you how much I am enjoying the "Live at the
Bluenote" CD (acquired at the recent "Bronte Autumn Fest" ). It was great
to reminisce with you about the early days of the 5 Rogues performing at the
"Michael Power Soul Crusade" back in the mid 60's!
Thanks for the years of TERRIFIC entertainment! I hope to see you perform
again real soon. (Perhaps at next June's Oakville's Summer Festival with a
bigger stage worthy of your presence!).
Cheers,
Ted
Ted.Zahara@affiniagroup.com
Justin Colyn –
October 3, ‘07
George,
It was great to work with you guys last weekend. Hope we are able to cross
paths again!
God Bless,
Justin Colyn
www.dwlgroup.ca
justin@dwlgroup.ca
Bruce Jenney – Sept
30, ‘07
Hi George,
We worked together back in New York at Trude Hellers I had a
band Soulosophy. You has Natural Gas. I just found your record album
in my basement and was wondering what you were up to.
Bruce Jenney
www.jenneysound.com
jenneysound@yahoo.com
cmurphy@york.cuny.edu
Shirley and Al Durk
- Sept 29, ‘07
Hi George
My husband and I enjoyed the Fall Fair concert in Bronte to-day. We talked
briefly to you about the Chick'N'Deli & The Bluenote and bought the CD. On
returning home, we checked your website and were pleased to see that you are a
Christian brother. Praise the LORD!
Perhaps we will take in one of your Christian concerts later in the year.
Blessings
Shirley & Al Durk
durk@cogeco.ca
Charmaine Voisine –
Sept 17, ‘07
Hi George,
I would be most interested in being added to your guestbook
of future (Christian) Gospel performances that you do in the Durham Region....
I have downloaded a few of your MP3's. George, just in case
you were uncertain of which Charmaine this is writing to you below <gr>. I am
Charmaine from DandCVideos :)
Always in HIS name,
Charmaine :)
PS Keep in touch
*Pickering Village*
charmainevoisine@gmail.com
Dan Sneddon – Sept
13, ‘07
Hello George,
I just finished listening to your George Olliver and the
“Natural Gas” release. What a great band that was, with Graham Lear on drums,
who went on to play in Santana.
The material stands up very well and “Leaders of the World”
should be an anthem for world peace “today” … I see the “Natural Gas” album at
collector’s shows from time to time. Big $$$$ bucks for a good copy.
Hope all is well and I will see you soon at one of your live
shows.
Dan Sneddon
Waterloo
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
Dan Sneddon - Sept
7, ‘07
Hello George,
I have a complete press kit from your “Mandala” days. There
is an extra copy of the introduction of the band. I got it on a visit to
California from a fellow that used to work at the Whiskey a Go Go. Let me know
if you would like me ot send you a copy for your scrap book.
All the best,
Dan Sneddon / Waterloo
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
AutoMaster Centre –
Sept 4, ‘07
Thought I heard George Oliver was going to play on the
segwuan or the other boat out of gravenhurst? Please reply as if we have to get
tickets we would have to get them now....Thanks
AutoMasterCentre@bellnet.ca
Karen Forrest –
Sept 1, ‘07
Hi George how are you? This is Karen Forrest and I just
wanted to see how you were doing? Sorry that we haven't come to see you lately
but I've been busy with my new grandson. If you could please start sending you
schedules to my email
crazyladyno1@gmail.com instead of Bob's.
Thanks,
Karen Forrest
crazyladyno1@gmail.com
Lee Anne and Herb –
Aug 16, ‘07
Hi:
I have been searching for a long time to find a CD of Live
at the Bluenote, George Olliver and Gangbuster. My husband and I have the
LP but couldn't find it in CD. So I am ordering it and can't wait for it.
This is so exciting, now I can even find out where you are playing online.
Thanks so much for so many years of great tunes.
Lee Anne
lhgray@sympatico.ca
D&C Videos – Aug
15, ‘07
George we wanted to know if it would be alright since we have been using a song
you sang at the Pickering Village Jazz Festival where you sang the words "living
in Canada" in our videos as an intro to place your name in the credits as well
as your website with permission so that people on the internet would know who
the performer is. Let us know and thanks. :)
David
and Charmaine
dandcvideos@gmail.com
Dan Ferguson – Aug
6, ‘07
Hi George,
I sent you an e-mail the other day but should have included
my e-mail address. You mentioned you have re-mastered the Natural Gas album when
I saw you in Quebec last week. Please let me know when the CD's are available
and I will order one.
Thanks,
Dan Ferguson
Woodbridge, ON
df@footage.ca
Maureen Higgins –
Aug 2, ‘07
So, when are you coming to the left coast to play? I
was a regular at the Blue Note and it would be pleasurable to see you play
again. No, this is not that famous singer that lives in Victoria.
Maureen
maureen-higgins@shaw.ca
Dan Ferguson – Aug
1, ‘07
Hi George,
I had the pleasure of seeing you at Montebello this past
Monday night. You voice sounds great and it was so good to hear you live again.
As mentioned when we spoke after, I will order your Natural Gas CD and re-live
some fond memories I have of that great album.
Happy trails,
Dan Ferguson
Woodbridge, ON
df@footage.ca
Angelo
Alfini – Aug 1, ‘07
It was a pleasure being on stage wiht you in
Montebelo Quebec. Thanks again.
Andy Holly, British Beat 66
aalfini@formandbuild.com
David
Spencer - July 27, '07
Hello
George:
I heard you sing at MissionFest Toronto in 2007
http://www.missionfest.org.
We are writing an online history of Canadian Christian musicians and media
workers. Our project is called ChristianMedia.ca. You are invited to
list. It's FREE! To join ChristianMedia.ca visit:
http://www.christianmedia.ca/join
In Service for Jesus,
David Spencer, Project Leader
Music.ChristianMedia.ca
Connecting Canadian Christians with a heart for music ministry
http://music.christianmedia.ca
Who
is David Spencer?
http://www.christianmedia.ca/zap
MusicMinistryCanada_Newsletter-owner@yahoogroups.com
Mike Maguire – June
18, ‘07
Hi
George:
It was
great to see you at the Lake Simcoe Arms on Saturday night. Diane and I always
enjoy your shows and look forward to your visits between sets, It's nice to be
able to sit and talk to you. It was well worth the long drive to Jackson's
Point from Newmarket via Wasaga Beach after a long and hot day doing the car
show at Wasaga Beach with the Corvette.
You had
asked me if I could send you a better photo for your website of you and Gang
Buster with my Special Events Corvette Pace Car which was taken
at the Classic Cars and Legendary Stars Concert. I'm now sending that to you.
Diane and I would like to THANK YOU for all the GREAT MUSIC over the years.
Stay well
George.
Your Friend
Mike Maguire
corvette.concepts@rogers.com
Joseph Sarino –
June 02, ‘07
Yes, time passes but our music will never die , when my kids
comment "live bands at a school dance" I could only nod. I spun records between
sets at Neil McNeil high school and Notre Dame dances, thanks for those
memories, they will live on … God bless.
Regards
Joseph Sarino
905-471-4179
JOESA@sympatico.ca
Hugh Duff – April
1, ‘07
Hi George ,just wanted to let you now your gig for Kenny
Koekstats retirement party in Windsor on April fools day was awesome,everybody
really enjoyed themselves "BIG TIME" I was Ken"s OPP partner for six years
,what a send off!!!! thanks again and stay well.
Hugh Duff
hduff1@cogeco.ca
Ted Lennox – Mar
25, ‘07
Ok, I’m old, but I still remember some fantastic music. I
remember George Oliver and the Soul Children. I think it was Neil McNeil High
School in the Toronto Beaches. This must have been in my early youth, some 35
years ago. George had a huge band, if I remember 6 or eight horns, and he came
in from the back of the auditorium in a white jump suit, white cape, black light
flood light and he and the horn section played and danced to black light and
strobe lights like the devil themselves was running the show. What a night, I’m
a little foggy as to who else was on the bill, might have been the Byrds, I
remember a blind singer with the other group who fell off the huge stage.
I remember all the old bands, the Mandalla, Lighthouse,
SweetBlindness, Bush, The Marktimes, anyone remember the old battle of the bands
at the old “Broom and Stone”, at the corner of Lawrence and Midland Ave. Each
night 3 big name bands side by side in what use to be a curling rink, I think.
Thanks for the memories.
Ted Lennox
1xlennoxt@sympatico.ca
Nick & Laurel
Dougherty – Mar 15, ‘07
Great show on March 9th at Louisiana (Brampton). It was a
pleasure talking with you about days gone by. The Live at the Bluenote CD is
great! It's a treat to hear the full Gangbuster sound and the voices of Shawne
Jackson, Roy Kenner and Jayson King again.
You mentioned you might try to come and see my band
perform. If you're not doing anything on Saturday, April 14th, Cold Duck is
doing a benefit in Orangeville at the Manora Park Pavilion with some good guest
artists and some of your (and our) old fans. We'd love to see you there.
We hope to see you again soon.
Nick & Laurel Dougherty
Tottenham
ndougherty@sympatico.ca
Doug Barnard – Feb
25, ‘07
George:
Still coming down from your amazing
Tribute to James Brown show at
Burlington's Boston Manor, Feb. 24th. I've got to tell you again what I told
you that night. I was fortunate to see James Brown twice, at the top of his
game in the 1960s. As good as he was, I still think you and the rest of the
Mandala were as good musically and packed way more of a punch. Why the band
didn't reach stardom back then- must have been very frustrating for you guys -
it certainly was for all your fans. And yes, if there is a recording of the
band's live performance, you should post it as an MP3 file - if there is not
enough material to make into a CD. All the best, George. Keep on singing and
doing the moves and we'll keep coming to see you.
-Doug B
Oakville
dbarnard@sympatico.ca
Mike Maguire – Feb
20, ‘07
Hi George:
It's Mike Maguire from Newmarket, just like to say how nice
it was to see you again in Newmarket. Diane a I
had a great time and danced all night and thanks for doing Try A Little
Tenderness.
Your Friend
Mike Maguire
corvette.concepts@rogers.com
David Millar – Feb
14, ‘07
Hi George,
Nice to see you today. It's
been a while. I'm a fan from the Mandala days. I'd appreciate being on your
email list, so I can find out about upcoming shows. Thanks,
David Millar
Millar_David@durham.edu.on.ca
Marilyn Carter –
Jan 28, ‘07
I am hoping you will come again to Hamilton as last year you
played down the street from me and the tickets were sold out so I didn't get to
attend. I remember you playing at the Broom and Stone in Scarborough. I still
have your single "Give and Take". Unfortunately, I didn't catch your tie
when you threw it!!!!!
Marilyn Carter
andrew11@hotmail.com
Bonnie Mills - Jan
28, ‘07
Hello George and Gangbusters,
It was a true pleasure hearing you for the first time. What
I have missed!!! At least my husband, Rob could remember how great you were and
still are. Can't wait for my ankle and leg to heal so I will be able to dance to
the greatest dance tunes around performed by you. Thanks for the CD, Caught
Away, can't wait to listen to it.
We will be following your schedule and will try to see you
whenever you are in our area.
Blessings to you and your family.
Rob and Bonnie Mills, Hamilton, Ontario
bonnielindsaymills@yahoo.ca
Paul Ledger – Jan
16, ‘07
Hi George,
I hope you remember me. My name is Paul Ledger and I
am the drummer who played along side of you on New Years Eve at Rob and Gabi’s
in Jackson’s point and at the Lake Simcoe Arms last October. I must say it
was a pleasure to drum for one of Canada’s top performers. I knew your brother
Brent (who will always be in our hearts) and also went to Earl Haig Secondary
school in Willowdale with Don Elliot’s brother Bill. I hope that I can get
up to see you again at Lake Simcoe Arms again this Saturday. Maybe you
need some help with your equipment,lol. Anyway, I just moved to Oshawa and
I know that you live in Whitby so if you ever need a helping hand in the
drumming side of your act, don’t hesitate to call me.
Sincerely,
Paul Ledger 416-278-0930
pledger@canbtv.com
Wendy Hunter – Jan
9, ‘07
Hi George,
I just wanted you to have a
look at the "Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival". It is a festival that takes
place every August in the summer for one weekend. It is a great weekend filled
with so many different artists. Take a look at the information. You can look
it up under Roots and Blues Festival Salmon Arm sign up. I just thought you
might be interested. Many well known artists come here, so you would be in good
company.
You would also have a place
to stay if you should decide to come here. It is also a family festival, quite
different from the Merritt festival.
I enjoyed looking at your
web site and reading about your career and family.
Your sister-in-law,
Love Wendy
wendyjoy@telus.net
Catherine
Rose – Dec 20, ‘06
Hi George!!
I have been trying for months to find music from Mandala, Gangbusters, etc.
There is a store in downtown Kingston that is truly unique. Memorabilia,
t-shirts, old records and the smell of incense when you walk in the door.
The owner is propably in his fifties
and is hanging on to the 60's. He is trying to find your music for me and
will e-mail me when he does. I can't wait much longer!!!
Someone out there must
have it and be willing to share. There is a copy on eBay for 23.00 US plus
13.00 shipping for a record that is very worn out. The record has been
played soooooooo many times. Do you have any idea how much we love you?
You should be the top band in Canada and the US. This generation is in
pain. We need your music. Please get something together for us so we can
enjoy all that we had with you before. I sooooo regret not spending more
time at the Commodore when you were there.
Missing the fun years.......
Cathy
rosec@limestone.on.ca
Sue Kennedy – Nov
9, ‘06
Hi George,
Can I tell you that you made many young girls very happy in
the sixties in the Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa area. We loved the Mandala.
I am trying to arrange my husband, his brother, and wife to come to see you in
the new year, but the two brothers are not speaking at present. I am
hoping I can get them to a show without the other knowing. I know this
would be what it takes to bring them back together. They were so close in
the 60's and 70's. I look forward to hearing you sing again. I have
downloaded a couple of your songs on my computer, but will buy your CDs when we
come there.
Thanks for so many good memories. The dances at Ajax
High were what brought my husband and I together. It has been 32 years we have
been married, but 39 since we first saw you.
Thanks again for all you
give.
Sue Kennedy
astjk@comcast.net
Dr. Chuck Listro –
Nov 6 ‘06
Hi, George,
I heard you at Melanie’s in Whitby. I was the dancing fool
who came and did the backup singer bit with Linda Grieco. It was a Frank
Company do a I remember.
You’re playing Rosa’s place. I have been playing the
Italian gigs for (let’s see … I’m 54 now) – thirty years. If you’d like to chat
about it, call my clini (416) 226-6677.
Chuck
drlistro@on.aibn.com
Sandra Harriss – Nov 2, ‘06
Dear George:
I am so far away, but with each venue that I hear you are
playing at- I can hear your singing voice- moving the earth to reach the stars!
Thanks for sharing your talent and I keep praying that someone will get wise
and use your voice in films - so other audiences can be moved by your great
voice.
Love you very much.
Sandra
Harriss
Sandra.Harriss@ubht.nhs.uk
Russ McAllister –
Sept 26, ‘06
Hi George! My band worked some of the same venues
throughout the sixties. Kings Hall ( Duffy's), Mother's Place, St. Nick's all in
Hamilton. We opened a few shows for you with The Brethren and Danny
Squire. I was very good friends with Booby Washington and The Soul
Society. Last saw you at Carmens Banquet Center. As usual you were great.
It's been fabulous watching you through the years and you never stopped being
the ultimate professional. You keep raising the bar. My biggest
surprise is how you keep in such great condition. Your daily regimine and
diet must be must be dynamite. Good Luck this week at St. Nick's.
I'm playing a gig myself and won't be there, but many of my friends will be.
Say hello to Fred Pidsadny and give him my best. SEEYA!
Russ McAllister
fender@sympatico.ca
John Bootle – Sept
11, ‘06
George, I was an underaged guitarist (bars) in the 60's and
I first saw you with the Rogues in '64. It was at the CNE.
You had what I called a "double falceto" that you had
incredible control of. I was 15 at the time. Beatles had just come
out....anyway it was you who introduced me to what later became known as
"blue-eyed" soul, and you blew my mind. Not just your great voice...you were
the "package." I mean everything. The athleticism, the good looks, the voice,
and the dance moves. In all, an unrivalled stage presence.
On top of that, Domenic, Joey and I believe Whitey. Not
sure on the drummer. In any case me being a country boy...a farm north of
Bolton...I was sure I had just seen the God of music's Heaven.
Well, about a year later, we shared the same stage. It was
a "discoteque" in downtown TO and I was lead guitar with "Chester & The Rogues"
while you were still "The Rogues." Don't know if you could possibly remember,
anyway, we did a set, you did a set, etc....maybe to help your memory, "Chester"
was a 6-foot four-inch black man, about 230 lbs. with a booming voice, but had
about as much soul as Pat Boone. We, the band assumed he would have some!!
Anyway, he raved about you after the gig.
By the way, I'm very sorry for your having lost Donnie. I
loved him too, as a guitar player who KNEW what a pioneer he was.
When you went to the states, and Opportunity came out in
Canada, I was certain you were heading for superstardom. As you should. But,
I'm sure, there had to be some bad management, some power plays, something, that
was the key that turned off your rise to the top. That little bit of info I
would love to know but not for me to insist.
I saw you on two other occasions in the 70's, spoke to you
briefly once and you were gracious and friendly. And I was happy just to have
properly met you.
I was doing the Ontario circuit, drank too much and fell in
with the wrong types and ended up in Kingston doing a six-year bit. Took a band
out of the pen, in legirons, HA! to a gig in a church basement in
Kingston....can you imagine! It was a first for the joint.
I have whatever I could collect of you on mp3, and every
other white soul dude in the universe, and I still consider your talent to be
unequalled from those glory days. (Springstein)
I'm going to download your new spiritual stuff,,,,,I'm not a
religious person but I believe that God is in the good side of Man's heart so
I'm looking forward to hearing you again. If the double falcetto ain't there
you're already forgiven. Hell, I lost my highs a few years ago.
I am writing with a passion, have a digital studio (small)
and if you are interested, (and I know you are) and would like to give me a
sentiment, a feeling, an idea of what you'd like to put out, a theme, something
to grasp, I'd love to do a lyric and a bed track for you.........not even
thinking of $ ..a slap on the back will do. I'll send you a little tune I just
finished just so you know I'm serious. It's not a great production, but it will
tell you something about my abilities at least.
from New Brunswick.........your fan,
John Bootle
jcbootle@nb.sympatico.ca
Larry Killam – Sept
6, ‘06
Sean from Chalet Studios directed me to you.Enjoyed your song The Cost.I am a
member of Songramp.
http://songramp.com/lps45s8tracks I sing Bluegrass Gospel and Country.
Just a bunch of Amatuers for the Lord. We do cover songs and one that our lead
singer has written Come To Jesus. We were known as The Rawdon Heirs but now are
called The Fishermen.
I
am a member of My Space too.
http://myspace.com/yrralmallik I have 2 Gospel songs at Songramp You Are on
my homepage You Are reached #1 in Hot 100 Charts at songramp In Singer
Songwriter and Overall the songs. Must of been because we posted it around
Easter and my most recent The Warning To The Nations sitting at # 25 in Song
Charts at Songramp on my co-writers Kip Marchetti BMI page
http://songramp.com/okieduststorm .
All the best.
Your friend in Jesus.
Larry Killam (:Yrral Mallik:)
lbkillam@hotmail.com
Hank Dandini – Aug
30, ‘06
Hi George,
I wanted to thank you for your recordings for Gilbert
Santana. They were a very special gift to him. He was so happy to
hear them. They were very special to me also. Your letters of witnessing were
very encouraging to me and Gil. Gil showed me the letters and it was a
glorious reading which touched my soul very deeply. Thank you for doing
God's work, there is nothing better than sharing his word. I wish I could
express my sincere gratitude with more than just a thank you. I do thank you
from the bottom of my heart. I'm sorry to say Gil passed away last month.
Thank you so much,
My prayers will you and your family.
Hank Dandini
thehatman1@earthlink.net
Dave Ahiers – Aug
9, ‘06
Hi George -
Carol and I met you and Pat in the lobby at Rama for the
James Brown concert just before you were going to meet him. We also saw you at
Port Credit last Sept and I bought your new album Caught Away which I still play
from time to time. I found it very inspirational.
I have been following you on your web site and hope to see
you perform soon. Hope you and your family are well. Talk soon.
Regards
Dave
dave_ahiers@goodyear.com
Mike Maguire – July
21, ‘06
Hi George:
Just got back to Newmarket from the Mississauga Rotary
Ribfest, where the Ribs were Good and the Entertainment was Even BETTER. Great
seeing you again, Diane and I really enjoyed the show, YOUR AN AMAZING
ENTERTAINER GEORGE AND THE PEOPLE REALLY ENJOYED YOUR SHOW.
PS: THE BAND IS AWESOME
YOUR FRIEND
Mike Maguire
(NEW) cel. 905-717-1857
C.A.R. Concepts Are Reality
corvette.concepts@rogers.com
June and David –
July 20, ‘06
Hi George, Really excited to see you at Ribfest in
Mississauga Friday 21. Lots of wonder full memories, the music,the people. For
us there will never be a time, place like the old Bluenote. Please bring some
cds, love to buy them there. Can't wait to hear Opportunity live again....
June from Mississauga and David ,The Professor from TO
juneandjy@rogers.com
Keith Fraser – July
2, ‘06
Hi George, I heard you on CFBR's Rock Talk with Bob Reid and
Greg Godovtiz on Saturday July 01/06. As anyone my age knows Mandala was one of
the finest bands around, and your voice still sounded great. As an old rock
drummer now playing in my churches worship band I am going to go out and pick up
your CD and I will keep checking your web site for concert dates. I hope to make
it out to see you soon . . . and maybe say hello.
Keith Fraser from Scarborough
keith_fraser101@hotmail.com
Mike Maguire – May
22, ‘06
Hi George:
It's Mike Maguire from Newmarket, it was great George to see
you again last night at Sgt. Pepper's in Markham. Diane, her sister Charlene
from Dubai and myself really enjoyed your show. I had never seen your solo
show before and we all really thought it was GREAT and just loved hearing your
old hit Opportunity after all these years.
It was a pleasure to sit and talk with you between sets of
the old times and all those years you've been entertaining us. We listen to
your CD Dream Girl on the way home, as I told you I have a copy of it on vinyl
but had not been able to enjoy it because I no longer have a turntable.
Charlene will be heading back to Dubai in the United Arab
Emirates very soon with her copy of Dream Girl. She and Diane remember the
days of the Mandala when they were growing up in Richmond Hill and was also
saying how nice it would be if you were able to go to the Middle East and
entertain the people over there. Well we're looking forward to seeing you again
real soon and hope to catch you and Gangbuster at Louisiana's in Brampton.
KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK GEORGE, IT'S ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO
SEE YOU.
A FAN & FRIEND
THANKS
Mike Maguire (NEW) cel. 905-717-1857
C.A.R. Concepts Are Reality
corvette.concepts@rogers.com
Diane
– May 21, ’06
Dear George.... The more I listen to your Caught Away C.D.
the more I love it.... It is truly wonderful.... I really think that it should
be going further than Canada.... George, I am not a Church person..... but,
if I could hear that music, I would be there..... It really makes you feel
God...... That C.D. is amazing..... all the best to you.... Yours
truly, an old R & B Fan....
Diane
all the same, still a fan.... just wonderful....!!!!! You may convert
me...!!!
mattjdoran1@rogers.com
Greg Critchley –
May 18, ‘06
Hey George-
I was surfing and came across this site. Hope you're well. Would love to gig
with you again sometime.
drop me a line sometime
Stix
greg@gregcritchley.com
Rich Greiner - May
13, ‘06
Hey George;
I can remember you telling me at the Steam Whistle Brewing
Company in Toronto, a few years ago, that you had the first Bobby Blue Bland
record ever made. l have downloaded four CDs of great tunes Bobby has done.
They are on their way to you.
Best Regards and hope to see you shakin' and ana spinin'
real soon.
Rich Greine
Brantford, Ontario
Stay Sharp and Don't Go Flat!
bkelly@researchassociates.ca
Mark & Susanne
Euiteneier – May 12, ‘06
Hi George,
It was great to hear you and your band and to
dance to some great music the other night. (Loisiana Seafood, Brampton). My
wife, came from Germany in July '82 and her first Valentine's day was at the
Bluenote. It was one of the best evenings of our lives. After I bought your CD
I checked the date it and guess what...I met my wife on the night it was
recorded. Thanks, Your music is great.
Please advise me when your blues band will be
playing together and also when your gospel band will be playing next.
God Bless!
Mark & Susanne Euiteneier
Georgetown, Ontario
mark@sympatico.ca
Denis Lauzon -
April 9, ‘06
Thanks so much for posting info in regards to the Domenic
Troiano Tribute night in Toronto. You were amazing as usual. So much excitement
and energy. It was interesting to watch Roy Kenner, Grant Smith, and David
Clayton Thomas watch you perform.
With sincere appreciation from Grant and Ken Koekstat,
Windsor, Ontario. Looking forward to another George Oliver show. I also remember
you and Bobby Dupont and The Royals playing in London Ontario about 23 years ago
like
Denis Lauzon wrote April 9/06
kkoekstat@cogeco.ca
Denis Lauzon –
April 9, ‘06
George,
Caught the show at Trinity Streetsville tonight ...truly
inspiring!. As I told you in the parish hall, It's been quite some time since
I've seen you perform. The last time prior to tonight was with Bobby DuPont and
The Royals, in London Ontario. ...I'm probably going back 23 years or so ...You
were great back then, and you are STILL a truly awesome performer! ...The Holy
Spirit is work in in you ma man! ...
As I mentioned to you at the end of the evening when you
were selling C.D.'s, I've got a few songs you might be interested in recording,
one of which is entitled "Food for the Hungry", which deals with what the Lord
has in store for us all...another entitled "Tongues of Fire" which deals with
Pentecost, and how the Holy Spirit works in and among us all....another entitled
"Does God Really Love Me?"...which kinda starts with a person who's really down,
and wondering where God is ...whether God is even thinking about him, (as we all
sometimes do) but then about halfway through the song, there's a catharsis, and
he looks around himself and sees all that God (and Jesus) has done for him, and
he comes to the conclusion: "God really DOES love me". ....and another ,
co-written with a friend entitled God Goes Up (With Shouts of Joy)...very
joyous....very uplifting.
If you're interested in hearing these, gimme a shout.
Keep up the good work and God Bless!!!....Can't wait to
listen to the C.D.!! ...
Denis Lauzon
denndeb@rogers.com
Benjamin Arteaga –
April 1, ‘06
After a trip to South America I came to find a
CD of your music. This is just the beginning. How about music from George and
the children, from my point of reference it would be a nice addition to the many
memories that you gave us back in the younger days.
I had the good fortune to share this music with
my brother who was visiting at the time and was also a fan of The Mandala and
after a listening he stated. I became a seventeen young man again at the Sunset
strip for a little while.
How about a catalogue of your available music?
Best Regards,
Benjamin Arteaga
Benarteaga@aol.com
Vicki –
March 25, ‘06
Hi Georgie:
A bit belated, but just wanted to say what a fabulous time
we had at Chicago's on March 10. You and the Gangbusters were, as usual,
absolutely fantastic and you certainly had the whole place rocking. Can't quite
forgive you for forgetting to play Mustang Sally but you'll have to make up for
it the next time I come out to see you!! Keep letting me know where you are via
your emails as you have a very loyal fan club out here in the Durham Region.
Take care.
Vicki
hijinx@rogers.com
Ed Kapica –
Mar 19, ‘06
Hello George.
Memories, memories and more
memories. The Toronto sound of the mid 60’s was truly something to listen to. In
the fore front for me of course was The Mandala. It was great to be able to get
out and catch you when I could. Probably the most memorable concert for me was
one at Hidden Valley in Huntsville. You guys had the ability to grab a hold of
our minds and through the lighting and music, take us on such an intense musical
trip – it was an experience. If you remember Hidden Valley at all, it was a 3
storey ski chalet with an open 3 storey atrium in the middle. The band stand was
on the middle floor. There was a beam approx. 12” wide from the front of the
bandstand to the opposite side and during one of your more intense numbers you
got out on this beam and were dancing on it while the strobes flashed, the
coloured spotlights flashed, Joey was wailing on his B-3, Domenic’s guitar
scraping the underside of the stratosphere and your audience mesmerized and
enthralled by it all.
Haven’t experienced
anything like it since, except through constant replaying of your music from
back then.
My vinyl collection
includes the Mandala albums and singles, your Natural Gas album, Live at the
Bluenote, the Royals with you and Bobby Dupont, your single of Don’t Let The
Green Grass Fool you, Domenic’s albums, Sweet Blindness, the Lincolns and a
couple of albums by the Majestics.
All testaments to the
quality of musicianship that we were surrounded with back in those days.
A pox on the local radio
programmers and record companies of the day for failing to recognize that fact.
The mind is a truly
magnificent and deep well and thank God that we are able to still dip into that
well and bring up some of the outstanding memories that float up to the top.
Keep well,
Ed Kapica
ekapica2862@rogers.com
Larry S. Oxenham -
March 13, ‘06
Wonderful to
see that you are still do’in what you love. I saw you with The Five Rouges at
The Purple Candle Club in Bala in 1965 for the first time. That was when I was
13 and I had to sneak in. After that night I couldn’t wait to get back to
Toronto and buy a Fender “Tele”. Well that was then and this is now. Like you I
to have made Jesus Christ my Lord. I was 31 when I made the best move anyone
could ever make by receiving my Saviour. Would love to hear you again if you
ever get out to Calgary.
May God
continue to Richly Bless you and your family.
Your Friend and Brother in Christ.
Larry S. Oxenham
Yvette.Ursuliak@sgs.com
Dan Sneddon – March
9, ‘06
YES THE STARLIGHT CLUB IS STILL RUNNING.THEY HAVE QUITE A FEW
ACTS APPEARING AND ARE BOOKING CONSTANTLY.THERE IS NO SUCH PERSON AS" JANE
BOND",THAT WAS THE NAME OF THE CLUB BEFORE IT SWITCHED OVER TO "THE STARLIGHT".I
WILL TRY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THEM BEFORE THE WEEK-END REGARDING YOUR APPEARANCE
IN CAMBRIDGE.I KNOW THAT AN APPEARANCE IN THIS AREA (INCLUDING THE ONE IN
CAMBRIDGE) SHOULD SPARK A FLURRY OF INTEREST.YOUR CALIBRE OF PERFORMANCE IS
SADLY LACKING IN THE CLUBS IN THE REGION.
I JUST READ THE ARTICLE ON YOU AND THE RAY CHARLES TRIBUTE
PERFORMANCE THAT YOU ARE DOING THIS SATURDAY (MAR11TH) IN CAMBRIDGE.IT IS GREAT
TO SEE YOU PROMOTED IN THE KITCHENER-WATERLOO RECORD ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE.I
TRUST THIS WILL LEAD TO REGULAR BOOKINGS AND APPEARANCES IN THIS
AREA.
THE "BLUES QUES AND BAR B' QUES ANNUAL EVENT IN KITCHENER IS A
HUGE FESTIVAL AND AN IDEAL SHOWCASE FOR YOU AND YOUR BAND.I AM LOOKING FORWARD
TO SEEING YOU THIS SATURDAY AND "YES" ITS ABOUT TIME A VETERAN PERFORMER WHO HAS
GIVEN SO MUCH OF HIS TALENT IN YOUR PERFORMANCES GET THE RECOGNITION YOU
DESERVE.
I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOU DO A DUET WITH CHERYL LESCOM,A
LOCAL TALENT WHO HAS PERFORMED AT THE BLUES FESTIVAL.....NOW THAT WOULD BE A
SHOWSTOPPER IN MY OPINION.
GOD BLESS
DAN SNEDDON
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
Vivian Sled – March
8, 2006
George!!! How the heck are you, Pat and the kids? Vivian
Sled here (from Don Cherry's). I was trying to get out to Chicago's last
weekend to hear you but ended up staying home with my grandaughter instead. And
then this afternoon I had a meeting with your neighbour Glenn Carr and your name
came up! Jamie and I are running an event company on the side and we are
looking at booking for New Year's Eve for the City of Oshawa at Memorial Park.
Would you be interested and/or free for the event? If so, let me know the price
for the full band. You would of course be our headliner!
Vivian Sled (905) 576-7606
Business Development Manager
The Downtown Oshawa Board of Management
www.downtownoshawa.ca
downtownoshawa@rogers.com
Bruno Campitelli –
Feb 28, ‘06
Hi George.... I totally enjoyed your show at St. Nick's...
and also purchased another C.D. Your Caught Away C.D. I do not go to any
Church, but, the music is wonderful.... I feel that you have found your
place.... although I have loved the other for many many years.... Yours
truly, Diane It is unfortuate, that you will not continue with the old
stuff... but, the other is fantastic.... all the best to you.....
mattjdoran1@rogers.com
Marcy Leipurts –
Feb 24, ‘06
George -
Totally enjoyed last night's performance at the Hollywood on
the Queensway. Too bad it wasn't as big a crowd as you were expecting, but
never the less you guys were fabulous as usual!
My husband still talks about you and the Mandala playing in
Brampton [where he grew up] & seeing you guys perform at Orange Hall. Anyway
thanks again for a wonderful evening of great entertainment . See you again at
one of your gigs. This time hopefully with my husband!
Thank You Kindly,
Marcy Leipurts
marcy@penguinn.com
Fred Pidsadny – Feb
20, ‘06
It's about 1:00 pm on Sunday,
I'm still a little unstable (it's the last drink that does it) but I wanted to
convey to you and the dance committee that I thought last night was truly
outstanding....George was unbelievable. His personal performance, the way he got
people engaged (that back up group that he instantly created from very willing
and enthusiastic groupees was sensational), dancing with us on the floor,
dancing on table tops and most of all just making last night into one big
retro-party was a testament to this man's immense talent as a performer and as a
decent human being. You made a good decision in booking George.
For me personally it was like
stepping into a time machine and I really didn't want to leave.
Fred Pidsadny President
905.945.0782
fpidsadny@focus-mgt.com
Dan Sneddon – Feb
18, ‘ 06
Just thought I would let you know that the theatre you are
performing in for the “Ray Charles Tribute” seats about 300. Looking forward to
your performance.
Dan Sneddon
Waterloo
daniel.sneddon@sympatico.ca
Marilyn Carter –
Feb 16, ‘06
I wanted to sign the guest book but i couldnt send from the
site??---oh well
i shall try again----i wont be able to attend the concert in hamilton as it
is sold out---just thought would tell you that i saw the mandela play at the
broom and stone in scarborough when i was 15 years old---i just found an
original 45 of the song "Give and Take"---i never could catch his
tie!!!!!!!
marilyn
mcart53@hotmail.com
William Wayne
Cardinall – Feb 14, ‘06
Hello George:
Found this site, couldn't resist! I was the bass player for
the Vendetta in '67. I caught your first gig on the kingsway(?) after the name
change. "Opportunity" was an experience I still remember. Joey's tricked out
leslie and Dominic's silky smooth, lightening licks and whitey's (never did know
how to spell) solid drumming, boy you guys (and of course, your phenominal
voice) made Canada a place to be from, as a musician. I'd never seen a strobe
light before that night. I wound up in Ronnie's band in 68/69 just around the
time Rick Bell and John Till went south!! I'm still playin', but way out in
Nanaimo, B.C., on the Island. I miss the large talents of Toronto, like my old
friend Al Mathews. Now there's a guy who should have been big! Well I'm
wandering n