RANDY RITZ - As a guitar player, Randy was one of the early attendee’s at Grant MacEwan’s fledgling Jazz music program. In the early nineties, Randy shifted to bass player and front man for international recording artists “Higher Power”. With a Nashville recording contract in hand they hit top “11” on US charts with the song “Cast A Light”.
Over the years, as he puts it, “I got tired of waiting for other musicians to commit to a band.” So Dr Randy Ritz set out to form Dr Blu, a blues band that is a vehicle for writing, great times, and some challenging guitar. Whether rocking it up or delivering a quiet ballad, Randy sets the table for music and stories that are unique and refreshing.
CAM HESLEP - Cam’s first drum lesson was in 1969 where he was influenced by his teacher to play left handed. Since that inaugural lesson, Cam’s unique style has carried on to today and is inspired by Teco Torres, the late Buddy Rich, and of course, the legendary Gene Krupa. Throughout his “jazz and blues drumming” career Cam has had the opportunity to play at a variety of venues and for various artists, all of whom had unique and diverse styles and genres, all of which, have added to Cam’s experience and skill.
Cam took a short break from music and in November 2008, Cam and Randy were re-acquainted where his sense of humor, discipline, drive and musical passion has become a part of Dr Blu today.
Cam enjoys music and if you were to pick up his iPod you would find a blending of Blues, R&B, Jazz and the odd tune from his daughter’s play lists.
MURRAY FORBES - Murray is a multi talented, seasoned musician and songwriter who has gigged extensively and produced several recordings in the Blues and Gospel genres. He has played lead guitar and bass in rock, blues, country and gospel bands frequenting many clubs, venues and churches in western Canada.
The ‘SwordSongs’, 4 volume CD collection has been his largest writing/recording endeavor to date and has been well received. Being the newest member of Dr. Blu he’s, ‘liking it’ and very excited about the future and to opportunities it holds.