“With music becoming more and more technologically advanced and performances being either lip synced or pre recorded using tracks. Blues is the music that is raw, real, and uses improvisation. Which is one of my favourite parts.”

Spencer Mackenzie:

The Maple Syrup of Blues Rock

With his fluid phrasing, resonant tone, and expressive performances, one could believe Spencer Mackenzie was born on Beale Street. They, however, would be wrong. The lauded JUNO-nominated blues-rock artist hails from Southern Ontario and has steadily earned accolades, and the attention of blues aficionados from around the World. Leaving nothing behind when he steps to the stage, Mackenzie offers showgoers a powerhouse performance, commanding his guitar with sophistication and prowess beyond his years. Maple Blues Award winner Spencer Mackenzie has been writing and recording true blues, showcasing the raw emotion and honesty the genre demands. There’s a familiarity and ease with which he approaches the music, almost as though it flows through rather than from him. The energy of his work is infectious, permeating through the listener until they, too, feel the heartbeat of the blues.

(Spencer Mackenzie / Photo by Jen Squires)

His passion for the genre deepens as he explores the works of blues legends while simultaneously being influenced by the bold energy of renowned blues rock musicians. This fusion of styles along with Spencer's unique sound in his new upcoming album ‘Empty Chairs’ embodies this gritty, introspective style with electrifying guitar featuring punchy riffs, soaring organ, dynamic vocals and an explosive rhythm section. Mackenzie's high-energy, captivating performance is one that grabs the audience from the moment the first note is played. With numerous Canadian, European, and US shows performed, alongside acts such as Walter Trout, Fantastic Negrito, Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton, just to name a few. Mackenzie’s new album Empty Chairs will be released by Gypsy Soul Records on February 20th, 2026.

Interview by Michael Limnios             Archive: Spencer Mackenzie, 2022 Interview 

Special Thanks: Bessy Gomez, Renan Yildizdogan (Gypsy Soul Records) & Hans Broere

How do you think that you have grown as an artist since you first started making music? What has remained the same about your music-making process?

I am fortunate to be growing everyday on my musical journey. When I first started I idolized legends like B.B King, SRV, etc… and focused on showing that In my original material. Fast forward to now, I continue to showcase new and old influences on guitar but my lyrics and songwriting have grown and have become just as important in my music.

Currently you’ve one release with Gypsy Soul Records. How did that relationship come about?

After the release of my album Cold November I wanted to go toward a Blues Rock sound. Which led to My album Preach To My Soul. Gypsy Soul Records supported me in that direction and we built a great relationship making that album which led to a great relationship musically and professionally.

“Growing up idolizing Canadian blues legends and getting to meet and work with a few of my heroes. I believe Canada has a great scene because the musicians are all so supportive of each other. And in that I feel that it shows to the audience. Also with Canada being spread out geographically I feel that people tend to support the artists in their province.” (Spencer Mackenzie / Photo by SG Wills)

Do you have any interesting stories about the making of the new album “Empty Chairs”? What touched you from Rory Gallagher’s “Don’t Know Where I’m Going”?

I was late to discover Rory Gallagher. I was so happy to be introduced to his great music when I was in college by a friend of mine. The song “Don’t Know Where I'm Going” stood out to me from the rest of his music with it being acoustic and having a folky energy. Years later when deciding to add a cover to this new record it stayed in my mind, and I decided to record it with an energetic blues rock twist.

What keeps a musician passionate over the years in rock, blues? What's the balance in music between technique (skills) and soul/emotions?

In my opinion what keeps me passionate is getting to play my music for people live and also getting to spend time with fans and traveling with the band.

Then when not playing live. Sometimes a small break to be with friends and family is great before going back into making music. Doing things like writing new music, listing and studying new music, practicing, and preparing for either more live performances or recording.

Why is it important to preserve and spread the blues? How did the blues shape rock and roll?

With music becoming more and more technologically advanced and performances being either lip synced or pre recorded using tracks. Blues is the music that is raw, real, and uses improvisation. Which is one of my favourite parts.

I am not a historian by any means but, I feel blues and gospel music used that raw, real, energy through tradition and experience and eventually caught the attention of some of the early rock and roll icons like Chuck Berry and Little Richard.

“I am fortunate to be growing everyday on my musical journey. When I first started I idolized legends like B.B King, SRV, etc… and focused on showing that In my original material. Fast forward to now, I continue to showcase new and old influences on guitar but my lyrics and songwriting have grown and have become just as important in my music.” (Spencer Mackenzie on stage / Photo by Stephane Bourgeois)

Why do you think that the Canadian Blues Scene continues to generate such a devoted following?

Growing up idolizing Canadian blues legends and getting to meet and work with a few of my heroes. I believe Canada has a great scene because the musicians are all so supportive of each other. And in that I feel that it shows to the audience. Also with Canada being spread out geographically I feel that people tend to support the artists in their province.

What moment changed your music life the most? What´s been the highlights in your career so far?

There are so many great moments I have gotten to experience. I would say a few of my highlights would be. Touring The Netherlands and Germany, Being nominated for a Juno, and writing and recording my new music!

What are you doing to keep your music relevant today, to develop it and present it to the new generation?

The way I stay relevant In my eyes is by continuing to write about current social issues going on in today's world, and doing the best I can to spread the word through my music.

Spencer Mackenzie - Home

(Spencer Mackenzie / Photo by SG Wills)