Doug Yuel

Doug Yuel has been playing drums professionally for over 23 years and during that time has had the opportunity to play every style of music that came into focus during his quest for that perfect feel. In the early 80’s he took part in the solid feels of country and played with the likes of M.A.C.A. award winner Harvey Henry and then on to win the coveted “Drummer Of The Year” award for 5 years in a row, in the M.A.C.A. All Star Band.

This was only his first stop in his quest because the turning point for Doug was a meeting with Brent Parkin. When Brent introduced himself and the blues to Doug, that was a turning point that Doug always looks back on with a deep sense of affection. He will always thank Brent for teaching him the real meaning of the blues, being played the right way and with the right attitude. During this time Doug had the opportunity to play with Otis Rush, Bo Diddly and Chicago’s blues legends, Valerie Wellington and Little Eddie and The Imperials. Doug was always called upon for the studio work in town but eventually Doug needed to find something more. He was still raising his family and a new interesting opportunity arose. To be an Instructional Assistant with Glenlawn Collegiate in the Community Skills Program. He found a deeper purpose in life in this noble calling and his dedication to his new challenge demamnded him to abandon music and to devote himself to the care and needs of others who were less fortunate than himself.

Then Kerry called him out of the blue telling him that a drummer was needed in this “Big Deal Blues” band he was playing with.

“Well???!! I’ll only come and play if it’s fun, otherwise you can call someone else, I’m still chillin.” – Doug.

Needless to say, after some convincing to try out a jam, he found the band “fun” and has been having a great time ever since. Don’t worry though, he hasn’t forgotten about his kids at Glenlawn and is still a teacher there during the day.

You can look forward to seeing his impromptu stage direction when the band’s playing and see the “Backbone” to the Big Deal sound in action.

- Kerry Hannah