LJ Mounteney

Artist Website

LJ Mounteney, often called the “Canadian Bonnie Raitt,” is a soulful vocalist known for her high-energy performances and versatility across jazz, blues, R&B, and pop. Born in Edmonton and raised in Calgary, her deep musical roots trace back to her mother’s classical training and her Hungarian grandfather, who played 13 instruments by ear. Inspired by a mix of country, rock, and blues legends, she developed a rich, dynamic vocal style.

After moving to the West Coast, Mounteney honed her craft at Vancouver Community College’s esteemed Jazz Program, studying under Jennifer Scott. She spent years performing with various bands, refining her sound across multiple genres. In 2017, she independently released her debut album, Here in the Dark, showcasing her ability to seamlessly transition between bossa nova, blues, and jazz.

Mounteney has collaborated with some of Vancouver’s finest musicians and is a lead vocalist in multiple tribute bands, including Zappostrophé (Frank Zappa) and Get Back Reimagined (The Beatles). She also co-hosts Van Django’s annual Cool Yule tour and has been featured in high-profile performances like The White Album Revisited and Motown Meltdown.

In 2019, she teamed up with blues legend and Juno Award winner Jack Lavin to record her sophomore album, Mama Danced, a heartfelt collection of blues and roots music featuring top-tier Canadian musicians. Despite pandemic delays, the album—filled with original songs, standout covers, and a special accordion tribute to her mother—became a testament to her dedication and passion for music.