by Adam Gault
Award-winning musicians and artists took to centre stage at a packed Migration Hall in Kingsville this past Friday, November 30, to perform at the celebrated, and one-of-a-kind, Ultimate Beatles Tribute Show in support of the Make-A-Wish foundation.
Celebrated musicians from across Canada and the world were joined by acclaimed speed-artist, Paul Murray, who created original portraits of Liverpool’s favourite sons in various mediums. The pieces were auctioned off in support of local chapters of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Murray amazed those in attendance with his original works, some of which he did blindfolded or while the canvas spun 360 degrees.
“The wonderful thing about these shows is that it’s not about the talent (of) Wendell, Sarah, and myself, it’s about trying to represent the greatest band ever and supporting a terrific charity like Make-A-Wish,” Murray explained.
Wendell Ferguson, a seven-time Canadian Guitar Player of the Year, and Juno-nominated musician, led his All-Star band in covering all eras of The Beatles, from early Cavern Club hits, to the musically celebrated psychedelic tunes of the late 1960s.
Also joining him was London native, Sarah Smith, whose wide vocal range helped encapsulate all facets of The Beatles’ vocal essence, awarding audience members with a show that captured the very essence of the Beatles, in a pure musical experience that didn’t need to resort to excessive gimmicks, like costume changes or accents.
The group finished the weekend tour with shows in Chatham-Kent and Lambton County.
To learn more about Paul Murra, his Music and Arts Collide series, and his art, visit paulmurray.com.