Lee Hedley Band

The Story So Far

The history of the band is deeply rooted in the heart of the blues tradition. Growing up in Newtownards, frontman Lee Hedley took his talents far beyond the local scene to play all over Europe and travel the world performing the blues. Along the way, his reputation as a premier blues harmonica player and vocalist has seen him featured on television and radio stations across the UK and Europe—including live sessions as a special guest on BBC Radio 2’s Paul Jones Blues Show.

In 2023, Lee’s incredible legacy was officially cemented when the Belfast City Blues Festival chose him as a 2023 Inductee into its Hall of Fame. This prestigious honour formally recognized his over 30 years of monumental contributions, dedication, and influence on the local and international blues scene.

In another extraordinary milestone that made music history, The Lee Hedley Band is the only Western world band to have ever performed in Libya. In October 2008, they flew to North Africa to perform an exclusive private party for the late Colonel Muammar Gaddafi and an audience of global leaders, including the United Nations delegation and former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. This historic, one-of-a-kind performance remains a legendary testament to the band’s unique international appeal and world-class professionalism.

Closer to home, a crown jewel in the band’s legacy is their unparalleled relationship with the world-famous Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. For 27 consecutive years, The Lee Hedley Band has made their annual pilgrimage to Cork every October. They have clocked up almost 150 performances at the festival—boasting a legendary streak where every single show has been completely packed out to absolute capacity.

A true testament to their musical calibre, Lee and his band have also been trusted to tour as the backing band for ultimate Chicago blues legends. They have completed three full tours alongside Ex-Muddy Waters’ sideman John Primer, and have shared the stage touring with the late, great Phil Guy (Buddy Guy's famously funky brother).

Following a brief hiatus, Lee has returned to the stage with a newly revitalised, powerhouse lineup. Armed with a massive dual-guitar assault, the band delivers a masterclass in dynamic rhythm, soaring improvisations, and deep, infectious grooves that consistently keep dance floors packed from the first note to the final encore.