Busking has a long history throughout the world and the word, busker, comes from the Spanish ‘buscar’ meaning ‘to seek’.
Entertaining through busking dates back to antiquity and can include singing, dancing, juggling and many other forms of street performance in public spaces.
For 10 years Earl Brinson has created music from Toronto to Collingwood and Owen Sound to Port Elgin for passers-by as the Grey-Bruce Busker.
He and his gentle companion Barney are inseparable as Earl shares his music. “Barney is my friend and my world,” says Brinson. “He was born in Owen Sound and I adopted him from the shelter there 10 years ago and he’s part of my music.”
Music is my healing
My dog is my friend
My songs I share with love
To bring you melody from within
Buskers collect donations and tips from the public in a variety of containers and by different methods depending on the type of busking they are performing. In Mexico for instance, mariachi bands frequently busk when they perform while traveling through streets and plazas, as well as in restaurants and bars.
Brinson, who is often see outside the Port Elgin LCBO with Barney, has his guitar case open for anyone who wants to donate in appreciation for his street performing.
“It’s unfortunate that some don’t understand or appreciate busking,” says Brinson. “In Owen Sound I was asked to leave a premise at Christmas time while playing Christmas songs. Every time I’m rejected from playing music, my heart and soul is broken. I have to thank the LCBO in Port Elgin for allowing Barney and I a small piece of the sidewalk outside their store and also the people of Port Elgin for their generosity toward both of us.”
“If anyone wants any outside entertainment, they can call be at The Grey-Bruce Busker 519-377-5328.”
