The Dukes of Destiny

In 1985, six young, local musicians got together and began playing old blues songs in a rambling three-story house in Philadelphia. They decided to take the act on the road as The Dukes of Destiny, a name they got from a matchbook cover urging the reader to “Be the Captain of Your Own Destiny.” A gig at the now-defunct Taker’s Café in Germantown launched their public career, and 37 years later they are still playing some of the hottest, most danceable blues and old school soul in the Philadelphia area. The Dukes of Destiny reign as Philadelphia’s longest-lived and best loved blues act.

There have been changes in the act: guitarists left and came back, bass and sax players moved and or left the band, and sadly, singer and founder Steve Brown died in March of 2000. But through all of the changes the approach and commitment of the band has remained constant, resulting in a band with a unique tightness and an original approach to the music.  

With a mix of powerful original songs, outstanding instrumental and vocal work, and unique arrangements of blues standards, The Dukes of Destiny continue to grow and develop as they share their music through countless performances at clubs, festivals, and on recordings. They have regularly appeared at many of the area's finest clubs including Jamey's House of Music, The Kennett Flash, The Sellersville Theater, and The World Cafe. Festival appearances have included The Philadelphia Folk Festival, The Chestnut Hill Garden and Fall for the Arts Festivals, The Paoli and Phoenixville Blues Festivals, and The River Blues Fest.

A dynamic five-person band led by ace harmonica player and singer John Colgan-Davis, The Dukes put on a dynamic and high-energy show. They get everyone involved in dancing and having a great time. They continue to be Philadelphia's longest lived and best loved blues band.

Tickets are $20 online pre-sale / $23 at the door (cash or Venmo). Tickets available at theroyalglenside.com/tickets

The Ways Restaurant & Brewery will be selling their delicious beer. No outside beer permitted. BYO-Wine is allowed with a $10 corkage fee. No Hard Liquor. Visit theroyalglenside.com/faq for more information!

The Royal's Health & Safety protocols can be found at: theroyalglenside.com/healthandsafety

Parking:

Guests of The Royal are permitted to park in the parking lot of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Enter the lot on Mt. Carmel Avenue, on the other side of Easton Road. Parking is available at the Glenside Train Station, but at your own risk as we are not associated or contracted with SEPTA. Street parking is also available.