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Hear Maple Ridge singer before he heads out on a cruise

Joseph Chappel descends from a long line of musicians and singers
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Joseph Chappel plays the Witch of Endor in Maple Ridge on Nov. 24.

Joe Chappel first felt the music and the irresistible pull to perform as a child growing up in Oakland, California.

It’s no wonder Chappel caught the performing bug early on – he has rhythm in his blood.

Chappel descends from a long line of musicians and singers, including Grammy winner Lady Tramaine Hawkins and Minister Vernon Chappel, an accomplished gospel composer and choir master.

His uncle Oscar McLollie is a successful rockabilly, blues and rock ‘n’ roll artist and asked Chappel to join his tour as an opening act in June 1974.

That’s when Chappel first came to Canada.

Chappel played old haunts like Oil Can Harry’s and The Cave in the 1970s and eventually teamed up with renowned Juno Award winning trumpeter Gabriel Mark Hasselbach.

They played Charlie Brown’s, Sheraton Jazz and the Sheraton in Seattle, Wash., a first for a Canadian band.

After Expo ’86, Chappel was asked to coordinate and perform in a male and female tribute to Motown. With this, he traveled across Canada to Halifax, opening for the Temptations, B.B. King, David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks  with Mary Wells.

Chappel demonstrates a remarkable style, which sets him apart from other vocalists.

He possesses a five-octave range, and is comfortable either behind a drum kit or playing percussion.

Chappel will be sharing the stage with Ernie White, who played with him at the very first Maple Ridge Jazz and Blues Festival.

It’s your last chance to see him play live before he leaves town for a four-month-long gig on a cruise ship.

• Joseph Chappel and Ernie White play the Witch of Endor pub in Maple Ridge on Thursday, Nov. 24 at 7:30 p.m.