Public Life / Rick Simpson
Glenn met Rick Simpson at the University Music Club in 1983. They decided to put a band together. After working with a few different musicians they formed the touring group Public Life in 1984. The band primarily focused on top 40 rock. The band members were Glenn Gray on guitar, Rick Simpson on bass, Doug Blackley on drums, Garrett Duggar on keyboards and Brian Pettigroo as lead singer. The band toured throughout Alberta and B.C. playing in a variety of clubs and bars.
The band was just starting to work on original music when they disbanded. Glenn and Rick joined up with Ron Rococo to form the trio “The Connection”. This was a smaller scale band — guitar, bass and keyboards playing over preprogrammed-drums. Rick left the Connection in 1984. Glenn and Ron continued until the summer of 1985 when Glenn returned to University to complete his 2nd degree – Bachelor of Arts in harmony and theory.
Front Row L-R: Glenn Gray, Rick Simpson
When Glenn returned to Edmonton from Musicians Insititute in Hollywood, Glenn once again worked with Rick at the Fringe Festival in 1991. They both played guitar and sang with Rick’s wife Kirsten Zuk who also played percussion.
1. Chains
2. Yellow Submarine
3. Come on Boys
4. Nowhere Man
5. Hide Your Love Away
6. Pistol Slapper Blues
7. Mr. Tambourine Man
8. Bankers Blues
9. Horse With No Name
10. Last Fair Deal
11. Ohio
12. Talk To Your Daughter
13. Since I Laid My Burden Down
Glenn and Rick had a long time friendship. They continued to play together at private parties and record. Click below to hear Rick’s original songs. These songs feature Glenn on electric guitar and Rick’s sister Kelly singing harmony with Rick.
1. You Keep Taking Me – Rick Simpson
2. May We Say Tomorrow – Rick Simpson
