Graeme Williamson

The late Canadian/Scottish singer, songwriter, published poet and author Graeme Williamson, was the voice and writer of the eclectic, whimsical and socio-political Pukka Orchestra, one of Canada's alternative indie darlings of the 1980's/90's 'Queen Street Scene'. In 1984 the Pukkas released their self-titled, critically acclaimed debut which included their national radio hit "Listen To The Radio" and fan favourites "Cherry Beach Express" and "Might As Well Be On Mars" - later covered by British group The Strawbs, both cowritten by Graeme. The Pukkas won the 1985 U-Know/CASBY Award as "Most Promising Group". Shortly after, while on holiday in Scotland, Graeme was diagnosed with kidney disease, underwent a transplant there but returned to Toronto so the Pukkas could record 1987's indie release Palace of Memory. In 1992 they released their final album Dear Harry. Graeme, facing more health issues, subsequently left for Scotland permanently in the early 1990s. Up until his death in June 2020, Graeme continued writing/recording new songs, many featured on this his posthumous 2022 solo album "Because You Were There". Neil Chapman (Buffy Ste. Marie/Leonard Cohen), the co-founder of the Pukka Orchestra with Graeme, took over the producer reins and spent 2020 and 2021 finishing the album.