FORT ERIE, Ontario, October 9, 2026 — Canadian blues and roots-rock musician René Huard has released his new single, Tail Waggin’, ahead of his forthcoming 11-track album, Gently Used, scheduled for release on November 5, 2026.
The new recording marks another chapter in Huard’s four-decade music career, combining guitar-driven blues, roots-rock influences and storytelling inspired by the experiences of working musicians.
Produced by longtime collaborator Rick Taylor, the upcoming album features Huard on vocals, guitar and harmonica, supported by his regular touring band and several guest musicians.
‘Tail Waggin” Draws Inspiration From Jazz Guitar Folklore
The new single takes its inspiration from a story associated with influential American jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery.
According to the anecdote, Montgomery jokingly compared his guitar to a pet when asked about maintaining his practice routine while touring.
Huard explains the inspiration behind the song:
“Based on an anecdotal urban legend, jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery replied to a journalist’s question, ‘Do you find time to practice guitar while you’re touring?’ Wes quipped, ‘I just open the guitar case every once and a while, and toss a chunk steak in.’ Ding-a-ling-a-ling, went the Pavlovian songwriter bell in my brain. Life on the road, wearisome, tedious, sometimes perilous! Didn’t B.B. King run into a burning building to save Lucille? Guitar man’s best friend, sharp teeth and strings that bend.”
The composition uses humour to explore the relationship between travelling musicians and their instruments, alongside the challenges of performing and touring.
Music Video Explores Life on the Road
An accompanying music video, produced by Jim Casson, develops the song’s central concept through visual storytelling.
The video combines humorous elements with references to the demanding routines of professional musicians, including extended travel and the importance of musical instruments as constant companions.
The release introduces listeners to the broader musical direction of Gently Used, which draws on Huard’s experience performing in clubs, festivals and recording studios.
‘Gently Used’ Album Scheduled for November 5 Release
The forthcoming album contains 11 tracks written and performed by Huard, with production handled by Rick Taylor.
Taylor also contributes guitar and vocals, continuing an established creative partnership with the Fort Erie musician.
The album’s promotional schedule includes two additional singles. Brand New Low was scheduled for October 5, while the title track, Gently Used, is scheduled for November 5.
Both songs are accompanied by music videos, according to the release announcement.
Niagara Region Musicians Contribute to New Record
Huard’s supporting group, the Project band, features Taylor on guitar and vocals, Jeff Muir on bass and Peter Griffin on drums.
Additional recording contributions come from Chris Airyes and Thomas Nelson on vocals, Alistair Robertson on saxophone and Ed Roth on keyboards.
The group has developed a regional audience through performances across the Niagara area.
Its appearances include the Canal Bank Blues Shuffle in Thorold and performances at Donnelly’s, reflecting Huard’s continued involvement in the local live-music circuit.
Four-Decade Career Includes Major Canadian Blues Performances
Huard began building his musical career approximately four decades ago as the frontman of the Meteors.
The group opened performances for established blues artists including James Cotton, Long John Baldry and the Downchild Blues Band.
The Meteors also appeared at the inaugural Ottawa Blues Festival, connecting Huard’s early career with an event that subsequently became a major fixture of Canada’s live-music calendar.
Outside music, Huard is known for hosting the television programs Antique Hunter and Antique Style.
Previous Album ‘Blues Calling’ Earned Radio Recognition
Huard’s previous album, Blues Calling, was produced by Canadian blues guitarist Jack de Keyzer.
According to the release, the recording reached the Top 20 on the Roots Music Report and maintained the No. 11 position for several months.
Its lead single, Hard Times, received exposure through Holger Petersen’s CBC blues programming, as well as American and international podcasts and campus radio stations.
That recognition helped extend Huard’s music beyond his established audience in Southern Ontario.
With Tail Waggin’ now available and Gently Used arriving November 5, Huard continues his recording career while maintaining the blues and roots-rock influences that have shaped his performances for more than 40 years.
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