**Campbell & Johnston: A Modern guitar-driven blues steeped in Classic Rock & Roots**
Christine Campbell and Blake Johnston (Campbell & Johnston) bring a captivating blend of vintage blues-rock, roots, and folk with a modern twist. Their performances, whether as an acoustic duo or with a full electric band, showcase a seamless exchange of searing guitar solos, rich lead vocals, and juicy harmonies, creating an experience that resonates with both exhilarating energy and intimate connection.
Their debut album earned them the 2022 East Coast Music Award for "Best Blues Album" and a Maple Blues nomination. Campbell also received the "Rooted to the Island Award" from Music PEI in 2023. Their music has featured on popular Canadian TV shows such as "Hudson & Rex" and "Sullivan’s Crossing," and they've shared the stage with renowned artists like Steve Earle, Burton Cummings, and Bob Seger.
The duo’s latest album, “Paisley Hearts”, released in Spring 2024, continues to reflect their vintage vibe. This release, supported by extensive radio play across Canada, the U.K., and the U.S., charted at number 3 on Canadian roots radio. Their single “Find Your Way” appeared in two Joe Bonamassa Playlists "Top Shelf (Americana)" and “Epic Guitar Solos” and is nominated for “Best Blues Release” at this year’s 2025 ECMAs.
Their 2024 release year was jam packed with appearances at prestigious festivals such as Ottawa Bluesfest, Harvest Jazz & Blues, and an opening slot for Tom Cochrane at the NS Stampede. 2025 is revealing yet another exciting tour schedule, including stages like “Somo Festival” where they will be sharing the bill with Alanis Morissette.
Christine Campbell, a native of Prince Edward Island, has been immersed in music since childhood. With roots in classical piano, her true passion lies in shredding blistering, Led Zeppelin- inspired guitar riffs and kitchen party style jams. Campbell has a voice that's been compared to icons like Norah Jones, Bonnie Raitt, and Janis Joplin, undoubtedly making her one of the most dynamic and multi-talented musicians on the scene.
Blake Johnston, hailing from Mount Uniacke, Nova Scotia, discovered his guitar talent at age seven. His journey throughout Halifax’s underground blues scene, fronting rock bands like The Stogies, and accompanying/writing with country and folk artists, have enabled him to weave effortlessly in and out of genres when shaping his sound. The latest album highlights his sultry slide side, reminiscent of Allman Brothers and Derek Trucks. Also an accomplished producer, Blake has contributed to multiple award-nominated albums and crafted songs that reveal his deep understanding of various styles and emotions.
Together, Campbell & Johnston bridge the gap between hard rock and intimate roots music, creating a compelling experience that engages audiences in both energetic and heartfelt moments. Their shared journey from early music scenes to a partnership in life and artistry, including building their own studio and expanding their reach, highlights their evolution and growing impact on the music world.
For fans of Hendrix, Joe Cocker, Chris Stapleton, and Tedeschi Trucks Band, Campbell & Johnston offer a distinctive sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly original.
“Find Your Way” is terrific, racing along on a wave of keys with great stabs of horns, the two vocalists giving us a soul tune that harks back to the heady days of Stax and Motown. - Blues Blast Magazine
"...this is one of Canada’s most talented performing duos, period." -Derek Andrews, Toronto Blues Society
“This is a power-pop duo from Prince Edward Island, and they’ve got the goods…The musicianship is exquisite.” –Gonzoo
“Paisley Hearts is an evocative album that takes listeners on a journey through the highs and lows of human emotion. With its heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and soul-stirring vocals, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who listen. “- Canadian Beats
