The Royal Jam

10/08/2024

Ladies & Gentlemen, Friends and Supporters of the Royal Jam, we the Host Band, Roughmix; after heartfelt consideration, have decided to end the show.

Roughmix has hosted the Royal Jam since 2013, 412 shows in 11 years, with pride and passion. Gary Lavallee (Drums); Mark Taras (Lead Guitar); Mike Pacey (Bass); Derrick Claridge (Keyboard); and myself, Rene Vermette (Emcee) have supported over 450 talented performers; with our regular supporters forming the backbone for every show!
Together we created an event that helped make Kingston a city known for a healthy, lively live music community.

BLU Martini's recent closing prompted questions as to where (and if) the Jam would go next, after already having our first venue, the Royal Tavern close due to COVID. It's effects are still being felt here and everywhere. Things change and so have we all. Despite this, new venues and bands have appeared and Kingston's Music scene will return strong and vibrant.

We must thank certain people who have helped us with logistics over the years. Mike, David, and Brian Lavin of the original Royal Tavern; Chris Fountas, Peter Delaney and Staff of BLUMartini; Trevor and Anita Johnson (Roswell Studios); Long-time pal, player and Jam friend; Roger O'Handley, Peter Hendra, Dave Whiteway and Bruce Boucher (Kingston Blues Society). Special mentions to Frank and Susan Warnica of the RCHA who have been enthusiastic about the Royal Jam and who offered to bring the Royal Jam to the RCHA venue on two occasions.

As a Group, aided by our mutual respect and honesty in coming to this difficult decision, we will cherish the experiences and friendships. Running any Open Mic is not an easy task, but the fella's helped make it look so!

On behalf of the Royal Jam, Roughmix and myself, we extend heartfelt best wishes, success and fun to our friends, audience and our community.

Rene Vermette

09/04/2024

Another Milestone as we move on.

*** DEAR ROYAL JAMMERS...AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
This Thursday, September 5th, 2024 will mark the LAST SHOW at BLUMartini for The Royal Jam, and others.
Kingston's Rockin' Open Mic has been fortunate to hold our show at this venerable venue post Covid, thanks to Mr. Chris Fountas; Owner and Operator at this location for 50 years! A man who has not only paid his dues times over but supported our local music scene consistently!
The doors will close at BLUMartini the end of the following week.
PETER DELANEY; Food and Beveridge Manager, was instrumental in bringing The Royal Jam to BLU and we thank him for all the support along with the great, friendly staff!
The Royal Jam will begin at 8:30 and go to midnight on the SMALL STAGE in front.
ROUGHMIX; Host Band will play a 30 minute set with the open mic starting at 9.
We ask guitar players to use the house amp only due to limited space. Keys, drums and bass are available as usual.
ROUGHMIX members Mike Pacey, Gary LaVallee, Mark Taras, Derrick Claridge and Rene Vermette WISH TO THANK all players and supporters over the years who have kept the show vibrant and varied.
More will be posted soon on this development, but suffice to say; The Royal Jam's 411 shows to date have provided a venue for expression to over 450 different performers since 2013.
WE THNK YOU ALL !

09/04/2024

*** DEAR ROYAL JAMMERS...AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **
This Thursday, September 5th, 2024 will mark the LAST SHOW at BLUMartini for The Royal Jam, and others.
Kingston's Rockin' Open Mic has been fortunate to hold our show at this venerable venue post Covid, thanks to Mr. Chris Fountas; Owner and Operator at this location for 50 years! A man who has not only paid his dues times over but supported our local music scene consistently!
The doors will close at BLUMartini the end of the following week.
PETER DELANEY; Food and Beveridge Manager, was instrumental in bringing The Royal Jam to BLU and we thank him for all the support along with the great, friendly staff!
The Royal Jam will begin at 8:30 and go to midnight on the SMALL STAGE in front.
ROUGHMIX; Host Band will play a 30 minute set with the open mic starting at 9.
We ask guitar players to use the house amp only due to limited space. Keys, drums and bass are available as usual.
ROUGHMIX members Mike Pacey, Gary LaVallee, Mark Taras, Derrick Claridge and Rene Vermette WISH TO THANK all players and supporters over the years who have kept the show vibrant and varied.
More will be posted soon on this development, but suffice to say; The Royal Jam's 411 shows to date have provided a venue for expression to over 450 different performers since 2013.
WE THNK YOU ALL !