Known for his sensitivity, generosity and talent, Guy Bélanger is admired for his ability to infuse virtuosity with authenticity. In 1974, Bélanger seemed destined for a career in traditional blues. Armed with his belt full of harmonicas, he met Bob Walsh, another Quebec City native, who taught him the rudiments of the blues on the stages of the provincial capital. In 1987, Bélanger joined Walsh’s band, with which he appeared at 15 editions of the Montreal International Jazz Festival. This was followed by a series of collaborations with more than 60 artists from Quebec and France, including Céline Dion and Cirque du Soleil.

His first solo album of compositions and collaborations, the eponymous Guy Bélanger, was finally released in 2008 to rave reviews from audiences and critics alike. Bélanger’s Traces & Scars (2017) won a number of awards and was nominated for Album of the Year - Instrumental at the 2017 ADISQ Gala. Guy Bélanger’s latest album, Eldorado (2019), is still very much about the blues, but this time with subtle touches of funk and folk.