Dave Kelly

Dave Kelly

Dave Kelly is a British blues singer, guitarist and composer from London. Born in 1947, he records and performs in blues, and is known for work both as a solo artist and as a member of several bands.

Career

Kelly first records in 1968 on Tony McPhee’s Groundhog series, appearing on the album Me and the Devil. At that point McPhee also features Kelly’s sister, Jo-Ann Kelly, and gives Kelly a track to sing and play on. When McPhee disbands the Groundhogs, Kelly and Jo-Ann move into the John Dummer Blues Band, where Kelly records the albums Cabal and John Dummer’s Band in 1968 and 1969.

After leaving the John Dummer Blues Band in 1969, Kelly forms his own groups, first Fire Point and then Tramp, with both bands releasing an album. He later becomes a founding member of The Blues Band in 1979, alongside Paul Jones, and continues to play and record with the group.

Solo work and other projects

Alongside his band work, Kelly records under his own name and as the Dave Kelly Band. His solo releases include Keep It in the Family, Dave Kelly, Survivors, Willing, Feels Right, Heart of the City, Standing at the Crossroads, Making Whoopee and Resting My Bones. He also writes for film soundtracks, commercials and BBC television work.

Bands

Kelly’s band history includes The Blues Band, Tramp and the Dave Kelly Band, along with earlier work in the John Dummer Blues Band and his own Fire Point group.