[Deathwatch] Ray Condo, Canadian rockabilly legend, 53

[Deathwatch Central <cdw@slick.org>]

Thanks to a reader for this one - Ed.

Canadian Rockabilly Legend Ray Condo Dies At Age 53
Friday April 16

It is with great sadness and regret we report that Canadian rockabilly
legend Ray Condo has unexpectedly died at the age of 53.

Condo was born in Hull, Quebec and was raised on a musical diet of
Elvis, Hank Williams and Ronnie Hawkins. Although Condo?s first band
(which he formed after moving to Vancouver) was a punk act called The
Secret Vs, he eventually found his way back to his roots, becoming
interested in rockabilly and western swing. He spent 11 years in
Montreal playing with the band The Hardrock Goners before returning
again to Vancouver to front Ray Condo And The Ricochets.

The Richochets led many young Canadian indie club patrons to
rockabilly, as the band toured incessantly over the years. They
released a series of albums, the most recent one being 2000?s High And
Wild. Condo was still in prime touring shape before his death, with
plans to visit Australia, Europe and the U.S.

Naturally, the Canadian roots and rock scenes are in mourning this
tragic news and a few events have been scheduled in Condo?s memory.
Vancouverites can celebrate Condo?s life this Saturday (April 17) at
the Railway Club from 4 to 7 p.m. Another tribute will be held in
Montreal on Saturday at the Wheel Club. In Toronto photographer Gayle
Hurmuses will celebrate what would have been Condo?s 54th birthday on
May 16. Torontonians should keep their eyes on local listings for more
info on that event as the date draws closer.