Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – Nov 2, 2025
Emerging in the mid-60s was one of the defining groups of what became known as the Toronto Sound—a distinct blend of rock, R&B, and soul that developed in Ontario’s vibrant club circuit.
The band was fronted by a dynamic vocalist from Hamilton, Ontario, who was known for his powerful, gospel-like delivery and commanding stage presence.
The band itself had a full, brassy, soulful sound and featured some of the most talented musicians in the region. It was made up of horn players, keyboardists, and rhythm section members, many of whom would go on to shape Canadian rock history.
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The Toronto Sound was born in the 60s from a convergence of influences—American R&B imported via Buffalo and Detroit radio, British Invasion rock, and the deep well of local talent that filled Toronto’s Yonge Street night clubs. Musically, its components typically consisted of heavy electric bass, New Orleans-style drumming, a dominant Hammond organ, and soul singing. Bands distinguished themselves by presenting full shows, complete with a matching wardrobe and choreography like that of James Brown & the Famous Flames.
Our featured band became one of the scene’s central acts, often sharing bills with other Canadian R&B outfits such as David Clayton-Thomas & The Shays, Mandala, and The Silhouettes. Their live shows were explosive, featuring tight horn arrangements, strong grooves, and the lead singer’s charismatic delivery.
One of the band’s most notable recordings was their 1967 version of a song written and performed by Jamaican singer/songwriter Jackie Edwards. It was also a hit in 1965 hit by The Spencer Davis Group.
Rather than merely replicate the British band’s raw R&B approach, Grant Smith & The Power reinterpreted the song through the lens of the Toronto Sound and made it their own. Their version added depth with a brass section and a tighter, funkier rhythm arrangement, while Smith’s vocals brought a grittier, more impassioned feel compared to Steve Winwood’s youthful tone.
The result was a track that maintained the song’s urgency but infused it with a distinctly Canadian soul energy. It became a showcase for Grant Smith & The Power live stage prowess and helped cement their reputation as one of Canada’s premier rock/soul acts of the late 60s – thus allowing them to “Keep On Running,” this week’s Tom Locke moment in time.
YouTube listing of the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI5Vb2cWUdo
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
