Curtis Chaffey is the kind of performer who doesn’t just step onto a stage—he settles into it like it’s home. Well known for his soulful guitar work alongside powerhouse vocalist Samantha Martin in her band, Chaffey has carved out a reputation as a deeply expressive singer with a knack for locking into a groove and elevating everyone around him. With roots in blues, rock, and classic R&B, his style feels both timeless and lived-in, the product of countless nights on the road and in dimly lit venues where the music matters more than anything else.

Offstage, he’s known for his easygoing nature and longtime friendship with Steve Marriner—a connection that speaks to his deep ties within Canada’s tight-knit blues scene. Whether he’s harmonizing, trading lines, or stepping forward with his own voice, Chaffey brings authenticity, warmth, and swagger to keep audiences leaning in. Catch him for the first time solo here at The Cove Inn in Westport on Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 5 to 8 PM on the patio! Details and reservations here. 

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Seamus Cowan: You’ve spent a lot of time sharing the stage—what’s the most unexpected or hilarious moment that’s ever happened mid-performance?

Curtis Chaffey: Well, years ago at Ottawa Bluesfest, my brother and I were guesting on stage with Monkey Junk when some kids were sneaking around under the stage and tripped the power supply. The whole stage went down and we stood there for 15 minutes until the techs figured out what had happened. The artist after us was a young performer named Drake! I think his audience was getting restless and pulled the power on purpose. I laughed!

Q: When you’re touring with Samantha Martin, who’s most likely to take over the playlist in the van—and how questionable are their choices? 

Curtis: Most of us use headphones because there are so many of us in the band. Making a decision that pleases everyone can be tricky. Fun game we play though is “guilty pleasures”. Everyone picks songs that they like but are embarrassed to listen to in front of other people. Great game. 

Q: Your friendship with Steve Marriner goes way back—what’s a story about him that he’d really prefer you didn’t tell?

Curtis: Back stage at a solo show of his, he had glasses on in the green room and I said, “since when do you wear corrective lenses?” He replied, “I don’t, they just make me look smarter on stage”. He doesn’t wear them anymore. 

Q: If you had to swap roles for a night—frontman, drummer, or roadie—which would you pick and why?

Curtis: Frontman! It’s something I’ve done before and will do again. Who has the time to start another band though?

Q: What’s one song you wish you’d written, and what would you change about it to make it “a Curtis Chaffey version”?

Curtis: “Brilliant Disguise” by the Boss and I’d only change the writing credits to my name.

Posted: May 5, 2026