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Few names carry as much weight in British rhythm & blues as Paul Jones and Dave Kelly—two towering figures whose lifelong dedication to the blues has helped shape the genre on this side of the Atlantic. Paul Jones first rose to international fame in the early 1960s as the original frontman and harmonica powerhouse with Manfred Mann, the group that stormed the charts with classics such as "Do Wah Diddy Diddy" and "Pretty Flamingo". Yet beneath the pop success Jones was always, at heart, a devoted bluesman. A passionate scholar of the music, his deep knowledge and unmistakable voice have made him one of the most respected interpreters of the blues in Britain, a reputation further cemented through decades presenting blues programmes on BBC Radio 2, where he has championed the music and its history to millions of listeners. Alongside him stands Dave Kelly, widely regarded as one of Europe's finest acoustic blues guitarists and slide players. Emerging from the fertile British blues scene of the late 1960s, Kelly built his reputation through spellbinding performances steeped in the traditions of Delta, Chicago and country blues, and through collaborations with artists across the international blues world—including appearances alongside giants such as Howlin' Wolf, John Lee Hooker and Sonny Boy Williamson's circle of musicians.
Their musical partnership became legendary with the formation of The Blues Band in 1979, alongside fellow luminaries including Tom McGuinness, Hughie Flint, and Gary Fletcher. What began as an informal jam between friends quickly grew into one of the most successful blues outfits Britain has ever produced. The band recorded a string of acclaimed albums, toured internationally for more than four decades, and earned a reputation for joyous, high-energy performances that celebrated the spirit and authenticity of the blues while introducing the music to new generations of fans. When The Blues Band finally stepped back from touring after more than forty years on the road, Jones and Kelly continued their musical journey together in a stripped-back duo format that captures the essence of the blues in its purest form.
In concert, the chemistry between Paul Jones and Dave Kelly is something truly special—Jones' thrilling, soulful vocals and masterful harmonica paired with Kelly's exquisite guitar work and warm, expressive voice. Between songs come the stories: tales from a lifetime spent at the heart of the British blues explosion, encounters with the pioneers of the music, and the shared history of two musicians who have lived and breathed the blues for over half a century. For anyone who loves authentic blues—or simply great musicianship delivered with passion, humour and soul—an evening with Paul Jones and Dave Kelly is not just a concert, but a rare chance to witness two genuine legends of the genre doing what they do best.
"A fabulous masterclass in British Blues."
"His majestic voice and mastery of the harmonica shine throughout."
"Jones' wailing harmonica and deep understanding of the blues make every performance a lesson in the music's history."
Paul Jones has also been recognised with multiple British Blues Awards for Harmonica Player of the Year, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his decades-long contribution to blues music and broadcasting.
"A cornerstone of the original British blues scene."
"If there is such a thing as a British blues pedigree, Dave Kelly's sets the standard."
"Kelly's dexterous guitar playing adds colour and depth to every performance."
Kelly has been active since the 1960s British blues boom, performing with the John Dummer Blues Band, Tramp, and later as a founding member of The Blues Band, while also leading his own Dave Kelly Band.
"With Kelly's dexterous guitar playing and Jones' wailing harmonica, it was a masterclass in downright dirty blues."
Music writers frequently describe their performances as authentic, intimate blues played by musicians who have lived the music for more than half a century.
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