Article content continued

So who could the “biggest name coming to RBC Bluesfest this year,” as Monahan puts it, be?

Most likely the mystery name is Kanye West, for Bluesfest’s teaser video is a clear copy of the beginning of West’s video for his recent hit Only One — right down to the crazy laughter and “you and Brad” (or whatever it says).

Also, West was scheduled to appear at the South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas, last week, specifically on Jimmy Kimmel’s TV show, which was filmed in Austin during the festival. West was a no-show performance wise, but that doesn’t mean he was not in Austin at the time.

Who else was in Austin at the time, and there specifically to negotiate with a potential performer for Bluesfest? Mark Monahan.

Bluesfest will make the announcement at 10 a.m. Monday. Watch the two videos, below, and note the unmistakable similarities.

Tickets for Bluesfest go on sale at noon Monday.

It’s worth noting that West recorded Only One with Paul McCartney — but surely the Beatle couldn’t be the magical mystery guest? A quick look at Macca’s website indicates that he’d have time to play Bluesfest, which will run July 8 to 19. His web site lists shows in Denmark on July 4, and then in Chicago July 31.

– 30 –