The Charlie Harper Band is a four piece rock'n'roll/blues band based in the Illawarra.
'We deliver a high energy and unique rock and blues show with a mean harmonica, guitar and bass sound'.

The band consists of dynamic front man, Charlie Harper, on Lead Vocals and Harp, John 'Ganno' Gannon on Bass and Vocals, Ernie on Drums and Vocals and Glen 'Rock Dog' Bowker on Guitar and Vocals.

Charlie Harper

Despite his amazing stage presence this is Charlie’s first band. He has always loved music but had only ever dreamed of playing in a band until he was finally encouraged by others musicians to start singing as well as play the harmonica. Fortunately he took their advice and started jamming with the original Mudsliders in the Kiama area some years back now and to his credit, through constant practice, stage performance and total commitment now has the appearance of a muso that’s been around forever.

Ernie Orth

Blind Dog Ernie has played for years and comes from a musical background. He has childhood memories of his Dad (Blind dog Ernie senior) jamming with mates and going off to gigs. As well as playing the drums he is a competent bass player, guitarist and singer. He has played jazz pop and punk and can weld and get down and dirty with power tools! He’s a very handy guy to have around.

John Gannon

Ganno is the last player to join the band. He’s been in a number of bands over the years playing a wide variety of styles. His latest project was with award winning blues band Mississippi Shakedown and still does the odd festival with them. Previous gigs have included The Howlers and Midnight Express with Steve Smythe as well as recording projects with Larry James Millott and Jeff Cripps. With his fat ass bass sound he’s a real asset to this band.

Glen Bowker

Glen, better known as the Rockdog, has played guitar on and off for the last 40 years. He’d pretty well given up for good when Charlie asked him to join the band. So he dusted off the gear, limbered up the fingers and has been with the band for over a year now and loving it. The band has steered a gentle course away from mainstream blues and a little more to the rockier side over the last six months. That has suited the ‘dog down to the ground coming more from a rock background. Still, the blues is where it all began for most guitar players so you're bound to hear some wailing blues guitar when you catch a show!

PLAYING AT SYDNEY BLUES FESTIVAL