DANNY TSUN
CREDITED FEEDBACK:
"4 days of tunes done and dusted. Sydney Rave History long weekend mixathon was once again jam packed with awesome Djs smashing out their best. I rarely talk about stand out sets but there was one...
Danny Tsun very talented musician who has never used a controller in his life. A year ago some of us surprised him with a brand new controller. Little did we know that this surprise would turn into a huge stress factor for him to learn how to use it. One year to the day and he had his first spot for SRH the closing set for the weekend and what a set!! The moment he thanked everyone for all the support and the moment I heard his voice tremble with emotion was a moment I'll never forget. Those who missed it missed it!!
Yesterday I was contemplating resigning from the yew crew for reasons that I choose not to discuss but Danny made me realise that we never give up!!" — Mary Christou / MFC - Yew Crew facebook group admin - October 2022
"Omg dude! that stream was epic! You cut and chop like you've been mixing for a few years!
I saw confidence in that mix, and I am so proud of you for how far you've come in a short time!
Loved watching it - What a legend! Keep it up mate! — DJ Adam Pride - fellow DJ - 2022
"So proud of you Danny! — DJ Bella - felloe DJ - July 2023
"Awesome set at the sHOTs gig bro! — DJ Niko Zee - fellow DJ - Feb 2024
"Danny is a dynamite player" — Peter March, and Georgina Reed - FM 99.3 "Soulscope".
"Love your fine work Danny. You continually amaze me stretching the boundaries and add so much to PJ's sound and groove’ — Colin Briscoe on 2RRR 88.5 "Feel Good Revival".
"The Thunder from Down Under!" — Bill Stalnaker - Guitarist & Director of the Johnnie Johnson Festival
"You are my new idol" — Frances Johnson (Johnnie Johnson's wife) - 2011
“Danny Tsun is the the closest to mimicking Johnnie Johnson than anybody I have ever heard!
I like everything Danny Tsun plays. When I met him in Australia, he was a kid,” Johnson said. “
Everything he’s done I’ve liked. Maybe I’m being partial, but he has Johnnie down to a fine art.” (2016) -- Frances Johnson.
"You sounded just like my dad, i was in tears" — Chastity Hudson (Johnnie Johnson's daughter) - 2011
"Whoa!! That was an amazing way to start my day!! Thank you so much, Danny!! So blessed to have you as my friend - 2020
Facebook comment - live video - "Johnnie's Boogie" rendition
"Well done! I can almost hear Johnnie next to me letting out a big sigh of approval!" — Bob Walther - St Louis USA - Bass player for Johnnie Johnson on a number of gigs in the 90's - Facebook comment - live video - "Baby What's Wrong" rendition
"To play like Johnnie Johnson isn't easy. This young man is killing it! He's on fire!" — Joel Sutton - legendary Australian Drummer - who has toured with Johnnie Johnson in the 90's, as well as many legend Australian blues acts.
"Danny... you're a mother***** on the keys bro!" — Ray Beadle - top blues guitarist in Australia
"Great job Danny! Thats how keyboards should be played!" — Chris Masuak - Radio Birdman
"You are the only motherf**** I know that has bothered to transcribe note for note the whole piano solo to "Up The Line" - Robben Ford!"
---- "You are a tasty player" — Simon Kinny-Lewis - renowned blues guitarist
"You rocked it dude, seriously! - Sam McNally - renowned keyboard player / producer / "Are You Listening Sydney"
"Danny Tsun - a heart as big as the Titanic, and a great musician to have on the bandstand.
An underrated keyboard player who is just as good as the older blues players in Australia - He should be playing with the worlds best" - Harry Brus - Bass player for Renee Geyer, Kevin Borich and more.
"Prodigious keyboard playing!" - PJ O'Brien - blues guitar sensation
"Danny sounded great at the Blues Explosion, with PJ. His playing is just too good. Had 3 compliments from different people regarding his great keyboard playing. In my opinion, as much as I like Matt Ross on Guitar with PJ, Danny's keyboard playing just injects so much more into PJ's band. Danny Tsun, take a bow! Love your work mate!" — Tony Cini - Blues promoter - Sydney.
"I was there that night at Harry Brus' big 70th gig - Danny was on fire!" - Sally King
"You are sounding so amazing Danny - remind me to break your fingers next time I see you!" - Alison Penny - 2009
"What an inspiration you are! xxx" - 2020
"You sounded great bro at the last gig with Ray Beadle. You are the only cat I know that Ray doesn't have to give any indication to what tune he's playing, or what key its in, you know his stuff, and pick it all up like THAT!" - Hal Tupaea - ex Little River Band
"You are a demon on the Keys, Danny. It's a crime you don't have a regular gig" — Dave Blanken
"the Jon Cleary of Sydney!" — Steve Lamante - young session Drummer / previous resident drummer for the "Monday Jam".
"You rock brother! I was at Towrradgi Beach Hotel, when you played with PJ O'Brien. I remember you when I was house drummer at the Wednesday night jam, Empire Hotel, all those years ago.... Nice to see you still doing what you do, with an amazing sensibility to the music played around you! Great job Danny!" — Garry Lyons
"A real Tsunami on the Keys!" - Johnny Cass - 2013
"What!? Note for note solo to Ray Beadle's guitar? That's crazy!" - Taya Chani - 2014
"Hey Danny, i have to say I watched a little of Pete Northcote's Iso Talk the other night and you were sensational !
It was so refreshing to hear your impressions of the current state of play in our industry, your honesty, your inspirational attitude, your creative spirit and your passion to achieve personal goals so that others may follow - even though they might think of them as impossible. And even though you have a disability. Good on you, all the best to you, Baz" - Barry Leef - 2020.
Gig review - "Johnnie Johnson Tribute" - Georgina Reed - read here >
mixbizblog.wordpress.com/2020/07/16/danny-tsuns-johnnie-b-good-tribute-to-keyboard-legend-johnnie-johnson/
"That kid needs a shiny suit for Christmas! - Outstanding!" Chris O'Brian - Australia's leading brain surgeon @ RPA Hospital = 1999
ACTS DANNY IS CURRENTLY WORKING WITH:
DANNY TSUN'S RHTHM REVUE
HARRY BRUS BAND
MARVELOUS HEARTS BAND
HAS WORKED OR PLAYED WITH:
Almost Brothers Band - WV, USA (Tribute To Allman Brothers)
Bill Stalnaker & Nightmoves - WV, USA
Larry Mccray - USA
Elllen Smith - USA
Ray Beadle Band - Australia's #1 Blues Guitar master
Mal Eastick
Gail Page (The Voice)
Mojo Webb
Harry Brus - legend Bass player - bassisit for legend Renee Geyer, Australian Crawl, Billy Thrope, Marcia Hines, Leo Seyer Jesse Redwing, and too many more
PJ O'Brien Band
Simon Kinny-Lewis Band
Continental Blues Party (Robert Susz)
Michelle Van Der Meer's Midnight Ramblers
Milena Barrett
Psycho Zydeco
Jive Bombers
Cass Eager
Marvelous Hearts
Rhythm X Revival
Superheavyweights (previously B'dussy)
Alan Barnes Band
Johnny Cass Band
Chris Mawer / RedBeans
Louisiana Roadshow
Kimi Tupaea
Bridie King
Sally King
Taya Chani
Big Mama & The Hanged Men
Mr Black & Blues
Kerrie Sweeny Band
Krishna Jones
Gabby Dever
Stone City
Baker Boys - wedding/cover band
Tumbling Dice Band
DJ Nick Muller - Eurodance Magic
CURRENT FRONTMAN SHOW - DANNY TSUN'S RHYTHM REVUE
Drawing from the repertoire of:
Stevie Wonder, Jon Cleary, Ray Charles, Robben Ford, Tedeschi Trucks, Robert Palmer – and so much more from Danny’s vast musical play list all from where his spiritual home is: The Southern States of the USA.
Featuring a guest lineup of some of Australia's finest established and upcoming musicians - some of which have included:
Rex Goh, Peter Northcote, Chris Kamzelas, Victor Rounds, Liza Ohlback, Taya Chani, Pat Powell...
Raw energy and emotion from where Danny's heart is, either deep down in the blues, and certainly loves to make it Funky!
Take a trip from the Mississippi delta juke joints, across to New Orleans; mardi-gras, a second line, or head across to Chicago to Texas! Its a night to soul-stirred, and to cut loose!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back Story - Danny Tsun:
Danny Tsun, born and raised in Sydney, Australia, several weeks premature, legally-blind, began his musical journey at age 9. In music class at school, violin was what the teacher wanted the students to play. After realizing Danny's hopeless fine-motor skills and sight impairment, she told him to go and learn Piano. This later proved to unlock a hidden talent.
Learning Classical, via the Suzuki method, it encouraged listening and ear-training, under the leadership of Astrid Van Der Vlise, who oddly enough, was also visually impaired.
As they both struggled to read the music, Danny soon began, silently, working out most of the music on his own by listening to the recordings. It didn't take long before he and everyone else realized a true inner natural ability!
One day, at around 12 years of age, hearing the sounds of Tommy Emmanuel's "Guitar Boogie", he immediately began to start playing along, and soon after was teaching himself, solely by listening! Soon he was picking up all his mum and dads vinyl, CD's and tapes, trying to play along. He soon discovered Jerry Lee Lewis, who became one of his main influences. When his teacher one day realized what he was working on, was his own original, she said, "play that at the next Christmas concert!"
At this particular event, Professor Chris O'Brian, from RPA Hospital was the guest MC.
Danny's name was called up to play, amongst all of other Astrid's students, but they had no idea that Danny would let loose, on a Jerry Lee Lewis-inspired rock n' roll piano-frenzied original "Shakin' In Sydney",
Busting out a knock-out performance, he got the biggest standing ovation he had in his life. Chris O'Brian then remarked: "This guy needs a shiny suit for Christmas! He's going to be star!" It was all over for anyone else that followed that day....
Diving in deep into the woodshed, researching, practicing and creating. Fats Domino, Little Richard, Beatles, Allman Brothers, Booker T, Jimmy Smith, BB King, John Lee Hooker, and just too many more, Danny was immersing himself into the Blues. His passion and true connection to his love of the Blues, fulled by his very challenging hardships growing up, led him to immerse in music.
At age 15, led to his decision of wanting to be a professional musician. "
At this time he was listening to Chuck Berry records, and discovered it was Johnnie Johnson way in the background on most solo's and most of the tunes, and soon began working his style out, all by ear! It changed him forever.
From aged 16-19, busking on Pitt Street in Sydney every Saturday, naturally, saw crowds gathered around, as he took to blistering blues, boogie, and rock n' roll piano covers, and, solo's for 4-5 hours straight!
In fact, no bullshit here, he made more money, and more recognition on the street back then, than at gigs that were to follow, years after. In fact,, 2-3 times the cash!
Private parties, and jam nights at pubs were soon to follow as well as being allowed to sneak in to the Bridge Hotel in Sydney aged 16, to see much-loved idol, the "Johnnie B. Good" himself, legendary, Johnnie Johnson, Chuck Berry's keyboard player. That night changed his life, after meeting him in person, he was so inspired, he then tried to emulate every single chord, riff, stab, solo and style of Johnnie Johnson.
Although also idolizing Jerry Lee Lewis and other keyboard legends, Johnnie was, and still is his number #1 idol, for many reasons.
After a blues jam at the Empire Hotel, a previous Blues shrine in Sydney,
Danny was offered a residency at the Kauri Hotel in Glebe, every Friday, with his former band, "The Bluez Boyz", as well as being sideman with the "Tumbling Dice."
2003 he got to meet Johnnie and his wife Frances again at the Basement, and Narooma... but sadly not long after, Johnnie passed away.....
2011, 2016, and 2017, Danny invited to play his own set at the Johnnie Johnson Festival in Fairmont, West Virginia, USA,
as well as with the festival and his band - Bill Stalnaker & Nightmoves. Frances Johnson, and daughter Chastity Hudson, when hearing Danny's playing, Frances said "Danny has Johnnie's playing down to a fine art"
Chastity said "You sounded so close to my dad, its scary" .
Bill Stalnaker said Danny is "the thunder from down under!" and was invited to play with the house band, as well as his own set at the festival, as well as front page article in the WV Times.
Danny has had a hell of a lot of challenges and obstacles, both physically, and emotionally... from being bullied at school for his size and being who he is, to feeling isolated and left out fron the rest of his peers in adult world, and indeed his place in the world, not to mention lots of heartbreak - that's why Danny plays the Blues!
But the blues is universal - its apart of being human. But it's also a spiritual sound, and can be healing and make you feel good, or feel something that connects you to the music individually to take you on a higher journey.
From the first time hearing Bruce Springsteen when he was a baby, to hearing George Benson on his Dad's vinyl, or Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson on cassette, Danny delves deep within his soul to emulate his vast musical influences and life struggles he calls "the blues".
Though the Blues is what's most in Danny's heart, he loves it all... and why not, it all comes from the heart!
Since these early days, he has played at some of his beloved venues, with some of his idols!
Empire Hotel (once hailed as Sydney's home of the Blues), Soup Plus (which was Sydney's first and best Jazz dive), The Basement, Woollahra Hotel, The Mac, Annandale Hotel, Kiama Jazz & Blues Fest, Broadbeach Blues Fest, Goulburn Blues Fest, Lazybones, Django@Camelot, toured W.A with the P J O'Brien Band, touring New South Wales and Victoria with the Johnny Cass "Tombstone Bullets" album, Rhythm X Revival, Gail Page, Harry Brus, and, also playing with.... Ray Beadle.
as well as many other gigs all over Australia.
Currently in 2019 & 2020 touring with the Marvelous Hearts, and the legendary Harry Brus Band, whilst still finding time to fit in his won shows.
In a yet to be released upcoming album, Danny is writing his own material, whilst dedicated to playing Live!
Make sure you catch one of the shows, either Danny as sideman for other amazing artists he also highly loves and respects, or fronting his own show!
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RHYTHM REVUE - CURRENT SONG LIST:
This is only just some of what to expect. Set list changes from gig-to-gig - keeping to the traditions of Soul Funk Blues.
Midnight Train To Georgia - Gladys Knight
Aint No Love In The Heart Of The City
I Heard It Through The Grapevine - Gladys Knight
Ain't Nobody - Chaka Kahn
Footsteps - Womack&Womack
Sex Machine – James Brown
Rock With You - Michael Jackson
The Way You Make Me Feel - Michael Jackson
September - Earth Wind & Fire
Celebration - Kool & The Gang
Get Down On It - Kool & The Gang
I Feel Good – James Brown - both radio edit and funk alternate versions
Superstition – Stevie Wonder
Get Lucky - Daft Punk ( What Da Funk version)
Hold On - Sam & Dave
Sweet Thing - Rufus & Chaka Kahn
Some Kind Of Wonderful - Joss Stone
What Do I Have To Do (To Prove My Love For you) - Marva Whitney
Respect - Aretha Franklin
Think - Aretha Franklin
Love The One You're With - Crosby, Stills & Nash
Masqurade - George Benson
Used To Love You - John Legend
I Need A Dollar - Aloe Blacc
Love X Love – George Benson
On Broadway – George Benson
Breezin' - George Benson
Feelin’ Alright – Joe Cocker
Could You be Loved Bob Marley
Is This Love – Bob Marley
Brick House – The Commodores
I Wish – Stevie Wonder
Who Is He - Bill Withers
Use Me - Bill Withers
I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
Crazy – Gnarles Barkley
Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
Gimme Some Lovin - Spencer Davis Group feat. Steve Winwood
Shot The Sheriff - Bob Marley
Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
To Be Real - Cheryl Lynn
Signed Sealed Delivered - Stevie Wonder
I Just Whispered Your Name – Harry Connick Jr
When You Get Back - Jon Cleary
Cheatin' On You - Jon Cleary
Mo' Hipper - Jon Cleary
Hey Pocky Way - The Meters
Just Kissed My Baby - Jon Cleary version
Crazy About You - Ika & Tina Turner
99 Lbs - Ann Peebles
Hey Pocky Way – The Meters
Higher Ground – Stevie Wonder
I Got So Much Trouble On My Mind – Joe Quarterman & The Free Soul
I’m So Thankful – Eugene Blacknell
Cantaloop – Us3
Night People – Lee Dorsey
Use Me – Bill Withers
Gimme Some Of What You Got – Simtec & Wille
How Strong Is A Woman – Ann Peebles
I Get Along – Ann Peebles
Some Kind Of Wonderful - Joss Stone version
GREAT BALLS OF FIRE
WHOLE LOTTA SHAKIN' GOIN' ON - JERRY LEE LEWIS
TANQUERAY - JOHNNIE JOHNSON
KANSAS CITY - JOHNNIE JOHNSON VERSION
SHAKE YOUR TAIL FEATHER - BLUES BROTHERS/RAY CHARLES
HOUSE IS A ROCKIN' - STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN
PRIDE & JOY - STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN
START IT UP - ROBBEN FORD
BORN UNDER A BAD SIGN - ALBERT KING
SHOT FROM THE SADDLE - DELBERT MCCLINTON
IF TROUBLE WAS MONEY - ALBERT COLLINS t
TIRED OF TALKIN' - ROBBEN FORD t
TAKE MY LOVE - JON CLEARY
WILD ABOUT YOU - ROBBEN FORD
HOT LITTLE MAMA - RAY BEADLE
LEARN HOW TO LOVE - TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND
Lie To Me - Johnny Lang
Chase The Rainbow - Kenny Wayne Shepperd
North Side Gal - JD McPherson
Hitchcock Railway - Joe Zocker
Unchain My Heart – Joe Cocker
Bring It On Home To Me - Sam Cooke
Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley
Whiskey Legs - Susan Tedeschi
Great Balls Of Fire – Jerry Lee Lewis
Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On – Jerry Lee Lewis
Johnnie B. Goode – Chuck Berry
House Is A Rockin’ – Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble
Long Train Running – Doobie Brothers
Taking Care Of Business – B.T.O
Layla – Eric Clapton
Fever - Peggy Lee
Lucille – Little Richard
How Sweet It Is – James Tayor
Riders On The Storm – The Doors
Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
Talk To Your Daughter - Robben Ford
Blue Suede Shoes - Elvis Presley
Black Magic Woman – Santana
Shake Your Tail Feather – Ray Charles/Blues Brothers
What I Say – Ray Charles
Start It Up – Robben Ford
Up The Line – Robben Ford
I’m Goin’ Home – Anthony Paule
I Can't Give The Time Of Day - Anthony Paule
No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley
Tired Of Talkin’ – Robben Ford
Your Smiling Face – James Taylor
Get On Top – Tim Buckley
Zoot Suit Riot - Cherry Poppin' Daddies
Blues For J - Jimmy Smith
Love Me Like A Man - Bonnie Raitt
Every Kind Of People - Robert Palmer
About To Make Me Leave Home - Bonnie Raitt
Little By Little - Susan Tedeschi
Workin' Day & Night - Michael Jackson
I Want You Back - Jackson 5
I Cant Stand It - Dee & Don
Chain Of Fools - Aretha
Until Then Ill Suffer - Barbara Lynn
In The Wee Wee Hours - Chuck Berry
"4 days of tunes done and dusted. Sydney Rave History long weekend mixathon was once again jam packed with awesome Djs smashing out their best. I rarely talk about stand out sets but there was one...
Danny Tsun very talented musician who has never used a controller in his life. A year ago some of us surprised him with a brand new controller. Little did we know that this surprise would turn into a huge stress factor for him to learn how to use it. One year to the day and he had his first spot for SRH the closing set for the weekend and what a set!! The moment he thanked everyone for all the support and the moment I heard his voice tremble with emotion was a moment I'll never forget. Those who missed it missed it!!
Yesterday I was contemplating resigning from the yew crew for reasons that I choose not to discuss but Danny made me realise that we never give up!!" — Mary Christou / MFC - Yew Crew facebook group admin - October 2022
"Omg dude! that stream was epic! You cut and chop like you've been mixing for a few years!
I saw confidence in that mix, and I am so proud of you for how far you've come in a short time!
Loved watching it - What a legend! Keep it up mate! — DJ Adam Pride - fellow DJ - 2022
"So proud of you Danny! — DJ Bella - felloe DJ - July 2023
"Awesome set at the sHOTs gig bro! — DJ Niko Zee - fellow DJ - Feb 2024
"Danny is a dynamite player" — Peter March, and Georgina Reed - FM 99.3 "Soulscope".
"Love your fine work Danny. You continually amaze me stretching the boundaries and add so much to PJ's sound and groove’ — Colin Briscoe on 2RRR 88.5 "Feel Good Revival".
"The Thunder from Down Under!" — Bill Stalnaker - Guitarist & Director of the Johnnie Johnson Festival
"You are my new idol" — Frances Johnson (Johnnie Johnson's wife) - 2011
“Danny Tsun is the the closest to mimicking Johnnie Johnson than anybody I have ever heard!
I like everything Danny Tsun plays. When I met him in Australia, he was a kid,” Johnson said. “
Everything he’s done I’ve liked. Maybe I’m being partial, but he has Johnnie down to a fine art.” (2016) -- Frances Johnson.
"You sounded just like my dad, i was in tears" — Chastity Hudson (Johnnie Johnson's daughter) - 2011
"Whoa!! That was an amazing way to start my day!! Thank you so much, Danny!! So blessed to have you as my friend - 2020
Facebook comment - live video - "Johnnie's Boogie" rendition
"Well done! I can almost hear Johnnie next to me letting out a big sigh of approval!" — Bob Walther - St Louis USA - Bass player for Johnnie Johnson on a number of gigs in the 90's - Facebook comment - live video - "Baby What's Wrong" rendition
"To play like Johnnie Johnson isn't easy. This young man is killing it! He's on fire!" — Joel Sutton - legendary Australian Drummer - who has toured with Johnnie Johnson in the 90's, as well as many legend Australian blues acts.
"Danny... you're a mother***** on the keys bro!" — Ray Beadle - top blues guitarist in Australia
"Great job Danny! Thats how keyboards should be played!" — Chris Masuak - Radio Birdman
"You are the only motherf**** I know that has bothered to transcribe note for note the whole piano solo to "Up The Line" - Robben Ford!"
---- "You are a tasty player" — Simon Kinny-Lewis - renowned blues guitarist
"You rocked it dude, seriously! - Sam McNally - renowned keyboard player / producer / "Are You Listening Sydney"
"Danny Tsun - a heart as big as the Titanic, and a great musician to have on the bandstand.
An underrated keyboard player who is just as good as the older blues players in Australia - He should be playing with the worlds best" - Harry Brus - Bass player for Renee Geyer, Kevin Borich and more.
"Prodigious keyboard playing!" - PJ O'Brien - blues guitar sensation
"Danny sounded great at the Blues Explosion, with PJ. His playing is just too good. Had 3 compliments from different people regarding his great keyboard playing. In my opinion, as much as I like Matt Ross on Guitar with PJ, Danny's keyboard playing just injects so much more into PJ's band. Danny Tsun, take a bow! Love your work mate!" — Tony Cini - Blues promoter - Sydney.
"I was there that night at Harry Brus' big 70th gig - Danny was on fire!" - Sally King
"You are sounding so amazing Danny - remind me to break your fingers next time I see you!" - Alison Penny - 2009
"What an inspiration you are! xxx" - 2020
"You sounded great bro at the last gig with Ray Beadle. You are the only cat I know that Ray doesn't have to give any indication to what tune he's playing, or what key its in, you know his stuff, and pick it all up like THAT!" - Hal Tupaea - ex Little River Band
"You are a demon on the Keys, Danny. It's a crime you don't have a regular gig" — Dave Blanken
"the Jon Cleary of Sydney!" — Steve Lamante - young session Drummer / previous resident drummer for the "Monday Jam".
"You rock brother! I was at Towrradgi Beach Hotel, when you played with PJ O'Brien. I remember you when I was house drummer at the Wednesday night jam, Empire Hotel, all those years ago.... Nice to see you still doing what you do, with an amazing sensibility to the music played around you! Great job Danny!" — Garry Lyons
"A real Tsunami on the Keys!" - Johnny Cass - 2013
"What!? Note for note solo to Ray Beadle's guitar? That's crazy!" - Taya Chani - 2014
"Hey Danny, i have to say I watched a little of Pete Northcote's Iso Talk the other night and you were sensational !
It was so refreshing to hear your impressions of the current state of play in our industry, your honesty, your inspirational attitude, your creative spirit and your passion to achieve personal goals so that others may follow - even though they might think of them as impossible. And even though you have a disability. Good on you, all the best to you, Baz" - Barry Leef - 2020.
Gig review - "Johnnie Johnson Tribute" - Georgina Reed - read here >
mixbizblog.wordpress.com/2020/07/16/danny-tsuns-johnnie-b-good-tribute-to-keyboard-legend-johnnie-johnson/
"That kid needs a shiny suit for Christmas! - Outstanding!" Chris O'Brian - Australia's leading brain surgeon @ RPA Hospital = 1999
ACTS DANNY IS CURRENTLY WORKING WITH:
DANNY TSUN'S RHTHM REVUE
HARRY BRUS BAND
MARVELOUS HEARTS BAND
HAS WORKED OR PLAYED WITH:
Almost Brothers Band - WV, USA (Tribute To Allman Brothers)
Bill Stalnaker & Nightmoves - WV, USA
Larry Mccray - USA
Elllen Smith - USA
Ray Beadle Band - Australia's #1 Blues Guitar master
Mal Eastick
Gail Page (The Voice)
Mojo Webb
Harry Brus - legend Bass player - bassisit for legend Renee Geyer, Australian Crawl, Billy Thrope, Marcia Hines, Leo Seyer Jesse Redwing, and too many more
PJ O'Brien Band
Simon Kinny-Lewis Band
Continental Blues Party (Robert Susz)
Michelle Van Der Meer's Midnight Ramblers
Milena Barrett
Psycho Zydeco
Jive Bombers
Cass Eager
Marvelous Hearts
Rhythm X Revival
Superheavyweights (previously B'dussy)
Alan Barnes Band
Johnny Cass Band
Chris Mawer / RedBeans
Louisiana Roadshow
Kimi Tupaea
Bridie King
Sally King
Taya Chani
Big Mama & The Hanged Men
Mr Black & Blues
Kerrie Sweeny Band
Krishna Jones
Gabby Dever
Stone City
Baker Boys - wedding/cover band
Tumbling Dice Band
DJ Nick Muller - Eurodance Magic
CURRENT FRONTMAN SHOW - DANNY TSUN'S RHYTHM REVUE
Drawing from the repertoire of:
Stevie Wonder, Jon Cleary, Ray Charles, Robben Ford, Tedeschi Trucks, Robert Palmer – and so much more from Danny’s vast musical play list all from where his spiritual home is: The Southern States of the USA.
Featuring a guest lineup of some of Australia's finest established and upcoming musicians - some of which have included:
Rex Goh, Peter Northcote, Chris Kamzelas, Victor Rounds, Liza Ohlback, Taya Chani, Pat Powell...
Raw energy and emotion from where Danny's heart is, either deep down in the blues, and certainly loves to make it Funky!
Take a trip from the Mississippi delta juke joints, across to New Orleans; mardi-gras, a second line, or head across to Chicago to Texas! Its a night to soul-stirred, and to cut loose!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back Story - Danny Tsun:
Danny Tsun, born and raised in Sydney, Australia, several weeks premature, legally-blind, began his musical journey at age 9. In music class at school, violin was what the teacher wanted the students to play. After realizing Danny's hopeless fine-motor skills and sight impairment, she told him to go and learn Piano. This later proved to unlock a hidden talent.
Learning Classical, via the Suzuki method, it encouraged listening and ear-training, under the leadership of Astrid Van Der Vlise, who oddly enough, was also visually impaired.
As they both struggled to read the music, Danny soon began, silently, working out most of the music on his own by listening to the recordings. It didn't take long before he and everyone else realized a true inner natural ability!
One day, at around 12 years of age, hearing the sounds of Tommy Emmanuel's "Guitar Boogie", he immediately began to start playing along, and soon after was teaching himself, solely by listening! Soon he was picking up all his mum and dads vinyl, CD's and tapes, trying to play along. He soon discovered Jerry Lee Lewis, who became one of his main influences. When his teacher one day realized what he was working on, was his own original, she said, "play that at the next Christmas concert!"
At this particular event, Professor Chris O'Brian, from RPA Hospital was the guest MC.
Danny's name was called up to play, amongst all of other Astrid's students, but they had no idea that Danny would let loose, on a Jerry Lee Lewis-inspired rock n' roll piano-frenzied original "Shakin' In Sydney",
Busting out a knock-out performance, he got the biggest standing ovation he had in his life. Chris O'Brian then remarked: "This guy needs a shiny suit for Christmas! He's going to be star!" It was all over for anyone else that followed that day....
Diving in deep into the woodshed, researching, practicing and creating. Fats Domino, Little Richard, Beatles, Allman Brothers, Booker T, Jimmy Smith, BB King, John Lee Hooker, and just too many more, Danny was immersing himself into the Blues. His passion and true connection to his love of the Blues, fulled by his very challenging hardships growing up, led him to immerse in music.
At age 15, led to his decision of wanting to be a professional musician. "
At this time he was listening to Chuck Berry records, and discovered it was Johnnie Johnson way in the background on most solo's and most of the tunes, and soon began working his style out, all by ear! It changed him forever.
From aged 16-19, busking on Pitt Street in Sydney every Saturday, naturally, saw crowds gathered around, as he took to blistering blues, boogie, and rock n' roll piano covers, and, solo's for 4-5 hours straight!
In fact, no bullshit here, he made more money, and more recognition on the street back then, than at gigs that were to follow, years after. In fact,, 2-3 times the cash!
Private parties, and jam nights at pubs were soon to follow as well as being allowed to sneak in to the Bridge Hotel in Sydney aged 16, to see much-loved idol, the "Johnnie B. Good" himself, legendary, Johnnie Johnson, Chuck Berry's keyboard player. That night changed his life, after meeting him in person, he was so inspired, he then tried to emulate every single chord, riff, stab, solo and style of Johnnie Johnson.
Although also idolizing Jerry Lee Lewis and other keyboard legends, Johnnie was, and still is his number #1 idol, for many reasons.
After a blues jam at the Empire Hotel, a previous Blues shrine in Sydney,
Danny was offered a residency at the Kauri Hotel in Glebe, every Friday, with his former band, "The Bluez Boyz", as well as being sideman with the "Tumbling Dice."
2003 he got to meet Johnnie and his wife Frances again at the Basement, and Narooma... but sadly not long after, Johnnie passed away.....
2011, 2016, and 2017, Danny invited to play his own set at the Johnnie Johnson Festival in Fairmont, West Virginia, USA,
as well as with the festival and his band - Bill Stalnaker & Nightmoves. Frances Johnson, and daughter Chastity Hudson, when hearing Danny's playing, Frances said "Danny has Johnnie's playing down to a fine art"
Chastity said "You sounded so close to my dad, its scary" .
Bill Stalnaker said Danny is "the thunder from down under!" and was invited to play with the house band, as well as his own set at the festival, as well as front page article in the WV Times.
Danny has had a hell of a lot of challenges and obstacles, both physically, and emotionally... from being bullied at school for his size and being who he is, to feeling isolated and left out fron the rest of his peers in adult world, and indeed his place in the world, not to mention lots of heartbreak - that's why Danny plays the Blues!
But the blues is universal - its apart of being human. But it's also a spiritual sound, and can be healing and make you feel good, or feel something that connects you to the music individually to take you on a higher journey.
From the first time hearing Bruce Springsteen when he was a baby, to hearing George Benson on his Dad's vinyl, or Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson on cassette, Danny delves deep within his soul to emulate his vast musical influences and life struggles he calls "the blues".
Though the Blues is what's most in Danny's heart, he loves it all... and why not, it all comes from the heart!
Since these early days, he has played at some of his beloved venues, with some of his idols!
Empire Hotel (once hailed as Sydney's home of the Blues), Soup Plus (which was Sydney's first and best Jazz dive), The Basement, Woollahra Hotel, The Mac, Annandale Hotel, Kiama Jazz & Blues Fest, Broadbeach Blues Fest, Goulburn Blues Fest, Lazybones, Django@Camelot, toured W.A with the P J O'Brien Band, touring New South Wales and Victoria with the Johnny Cass "Tombstone Bullets" album, Rhythm X Revival, Gail Page, Harry Brus, and, also playing with.... Ray Beadle.
as well as many other gigs all over Australia.
Currently in 2019 & 2020 touring with the Marvelous Hearts, and the legendary Harry Brus Band, whilst still finding time to fit in his won shows.
In a yet to be released upcoming album, Danny is writing his own material, whilst dedicated to playing Live!
Make sure you catch one of the shows, either Danny as sideman for other amazing artists he also highly loves and respects, or fronting his own show!
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RHYTHM REVUE - CURRENT SONG LIST:
This is only just some of what to expect. Set list changes from gig-to-gig - keeping to the traditions of Soul Funk Blues.
Midnight Train To Georgia - Gladys Knight
Aint No Love In The Heart Of The City
I Heard It Through The Grapevine - Gladys Knight
Ain't Nobody - Chaka Kahn
Footsteps - Womack&Womack
Sex Machine – James Brown
Rock With You - Michael Jackson
The Way You Make Me Feel - Michael Jackson
September - Earth Wind & Fire
Celebration - Kool & The Gang
Get Down On It - Kool & The Gang
I Feel Good – James Brown - both radio edit and funk alternate versions
Superstition – Stevie Wonder
Get Lucky - Daft Punk ( What Da Funk version)
Hold On - Sam & Dave
Sweet Thing - Rufus & Chaka Kahn
Some Kind Of Wonderful - Joss Stone
What Do I Have To Do (To Prove My Love For you) - Marva Whitney
Respect - Aretha Franklin
Think - Aretha Franklin
Love The One You're With - Crosby, Stills & Nash
Masqurade - George Benson
Used To Love You - John Legend
I Need A Dollar - Aloe Blacc
Love X Love – George Benson
On Broadway – George Benson
Breezin' - George Benson
Feelin’ Alright – Joe Cocker
Could You be Loved Bob Marley
Is This Love – Bob Marley
Brick House – The Commodores
I Wish – Stevie Wonder
Who Is He - Bill Withers
Use Me - Bill Withers
I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
Crazy – Gnarles Barkley
Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
Gimme Some Lovin - Spencer Davis Group feat. Steve Winwood
Shot The Sheriff - Bob Marley
Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
To Be Real - Cheryl Lynn
Signed Sealed Delivered - Stevie Wonder
I Just Whispered Your Name – Harry Connick Jr
When You Get Back - Jon Cleary
Cheatin' On You - Jon Cleary
Mo' Hipper - Jon Cleary
Hey Pocky Way - The Meters
Just Kissed My Baby - Jon Cleary version
Crazy About You - Ika & Tina Turner
99 Lbs - Ann Peebles
Hey Pocky Way – The Meters
Higher Ground – Stevie Wonder
I Got So Much Trouble On My Mind – Joe Quarterman & The Free Soul
I’m So Thankful – Eugene Blacknell
Cantaloop – Us3
Night People – Lee Dorsey
Use Me – Bill Withers
Gimme Some Of What You Got – Simtec & Wille
How Strong Is A Woman – Ann Peebles
I Get Along – Ann Peebles
Some Kind Of Wonderful - Joss Stone version
GREAT BALLS OF FIRE
WHOLE LOTTA SHAKIN' GOIN' ON - JERRY LEE LEWIS
TANQUERAY - JOHNNIE JOHNSON
KANSAS CITY - JOHNNIE JOHNSON VERSION
SHAKE YOUR TAIL FEATHER - BLUES BROTHERS/RAY CHARLES
HOUSE IS A ROCKIN' - STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN
PRIDE & JOY - STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN
START IT UP - ROBBEN FORD
BORN UNDER A BAD SIGN - ALBERT KING
SHOT FROM THE SADDLE - DELBERT MCCLINTON
IF TROUBLE WAS MONEY - ALBERT COLLINS t
TIRED OF TALKIN' - ROBBEN FORD t
TAKE MY LOVE - JON CLEARY
WILD ABOUT YOU - ROBBEN FORD
HOT LITTLE MAMA - RAY BEADLE
LEARN HOW TO LOVE - TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND
Lie To Me - Johnny Lang
Chase The Rainbow - Kenny Wayne Shepperd
North Side Gal - JD McPherson
Hitchcock Railway - Joe Zocker
Unchain My Heart – Joe Cocker
Bring It On Home To Me - Sam Cooke
Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley
Whiskey Legs - Susan Tedeschi
Great Balls Of Fire – Jerry Lee Lewis
Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On – Jerry Lee Lewis
Johnnie B. Goode – Chuck Berry
House Is A Rockin’ – Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble
Long Train Running – Doobie Brothers
Taking Care Of Business – B.T.O
Layla – Eric Clapton
Fever - Peggy Lee
Lucille – Little Richard
How Sweet It Is – James Tayor
Riders On The Storm – The Doors
Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
Talk To Your Daughter - Robben Ford
Blue Suede Shoes - Elvis Presley
Black Magic Woman – Santana
Shake Your Tail Feather – Ray Charles/Blues Brothers
What I Say – Ray Charles
Start It Up – Robben Ford
Up The Line – Robben Ford
I’m Goin’ Home – Anthony Paule
I Can't Give The Time Of Day - Anthony Paule
No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley
Tired Of Talkin’ – Robben Ford
Your Smiling Face – James Taylor
Get On Top – Tim Buckley
Zoot Suit Riot - Cherry Poppin' Daddies
Blues For J - Jimmy Smith
Love Me Like A Man - Bonnie Raitt
Every Kind Of People - Robert Palmer
About To Make Me Leave Home - Bonnie Raitt
Little By Little - Susan Tedeschi
Workin' Day & Night - Michael Jackson
I Want You Back - Jackson 5
I Cant Stand It - Dee & Don
Chain Of Fools - Aretha
Until Then Ill Suffer - Barbara Lynn
In The Wee Wee Hours - Chuck Berry