Rick Simpson (Public Life / The Connection)
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. Glenn sang lead vocals and played guitar. Rick and his wife Kristen Zuk sang harmony. Rick played rhythm guitar and Kristen played the tambourine.
Glenn Gray – lead vocals/guitar
Rick Simpson – vocals/guitar
Kirsten Zuk – vocals/tamborine
Songlist
1. Chains by Gerry Goffin and Carol King
2. Yellow Submarine by Lennon & McCartney
3. Come on Boys by Blind Blake
4. Nowhere Man by Lennon & McCartney
5. Hide Your Love Away by Lennon & McCartney
6. Pistol Slapper Blues by Blind Boy Fuller
7. Mr. Tambourine Man by Bob Dylan
8. Bankers Blues by Big Bill Broonzy
9. Horse With No Name by Dewey Bunnell
10. Last Fair Deal by Robert Johnson
11. Ohio by Neil Young
12. Talk To Your Daughter by J.B. Lenoir
13. Since I Laid My Burden Down by traditional
Glenn and Rick had a long time friendship. They continued to play together at private parties and record. Click below to hear two of Rick’s original songs featuring Glenn on electric guitar. Rick sang lead and his sister Kelly sang harmony.
1. You Keep Taking Me by Rick Simpson
2. May We Say Tomorrow by Rick Simpson
