Originally based in Vancouver, British Columbia, The Epics are widely known as one of Canada’s first R&B bands. With humble beginnings, the group quickly rose to national fame. During the height of their career, they toured across Canada and opened for the likes of Ike & Tina (Turner) Revue and CBC’s popular music program “Let’s Go.”

The Epics’ R&B legacy began on a fateful day in 1963, when drummer David MacPhail and guitarist Jimmy (James) Harmata met at the Smilin’ Buddha venue. They clicked and soon began to form their own band. Following the additions of vocalists Barry Collins and Jimmy Hoover, bassist Bob Kidd, saxophonist Gunther Klaus and guitarist Bill Gibson, the Epics were born. They began playing for local venues like Smilin’ Buddha, Oil Can Harry’s and the Hollywood Bowl. Two months later, they found themselves at the top of Canada’s R&B scene. Suddenly, they were known across the country, receiving media coverage and performing in front of avid fans.

Like all great things, the Epics eventually came to an end. The group officially disbanded in 1968. Their lead vocalist Jimmy Hoover branched off to form a new band with Kidd and Harmata that year. Hoover’s career took great heights, making him a notable Black Canadian artist.

Despite their disbandment, the band members frequently reunited and performed together. In 2010, for instance, members of the band performed at the Vancouver Blues Festival and Metro in New Westminster B.C alongside Jayson Hoover Jr and Christine Best. Overall, The Epics had an incredible impact on Canadian R&B. Through their soulful performances, they shaped the Vancouver’s unique spin on Rhythm & Blues.