"Hailing from the charming seaside town of White Rock... Ra McGuire."
"The King of the Strings, Czar of Guitar, Master of the Stratocaster... Mr. Brian William Smith."
Partners for 56 years. (Since they were three 😉)
It will be super weird to no longer see these two amazing humans on stage going forward. They've accomplished what very few have, often blazing new trails to do it, and earning the widespread love and respect of fans and fellow artists in the process. We're sad f...or us, but excited and happy for them as they start their next adventures, focusing on time and fun with their families. Enjoy your well-earned retirement, Ra and Smitty, by land, cycling, and by sea, fishing!
We're also excited that The Massive Trooper Touring Machine™ will continue on, thanks to their encouragement and support. Gogo, Scott Brown, and Clayton Hill have been side-by-side with Ra and Brian for more than 26, 25, and 15 years, respectively, making them the longest running 'Trooper'. Fans will be as delighted as we are that Steve Crane—an accomplished guitar god himself, and Brian's right-hand man side-stage for more than a dozen years—will plug in to rock your socks off. And we're thrilled to announce that renowned singer David Steele has joined the Trooper family. West coast audiences already know and love him, and soon the rest of Canada will get to experience the obvious reasons why. Or, as Ra so elegantly phrased it, "Holy Shit! David Steele is my favourite not-world-famous singer! I will be honored and proud to have him take my place! What a smoking band that’s going to be!”
Ra and Brian will always be our beloved brothers, and from time to time we'll share updates here of their latest adventures. And you will still see the familiar faces of the rest of the family, including Tour Manager/Sound Engineer Paul Cloutier and Merchandise Manager/Stage Wrangler Duane Church. Longtime booking agent Rob Wright is still the man to call, and I (Heather) am still here doing what I do.
So there’s mixed emotions going on in Trooperland, and many of you probably have them too. Saddened by Ra and Smitty’s decision, but also very much excited and looking forward to getting back out there and seeing everyone again soon!
The music and fun will continue with Canada's #1 Party Band, and you!
ARRIVE. RAISE A LITTLE HELL. LEAVE.
(Photo credit: Bob Roper)
