by Gwyn McAllister
Teaser
Local blues musician has survived life on the road, and now he's overcoming cancer with his typical exuberance and dignity.
In the sixties, Maynard Silva left his birthplace of MV to play the blues. He began a career performing in bars in St. Louis and Memphis, where he learned from blues greats. “You’d just go to these guys’ houses and they’d teach you.” says Maynard.
He eventually moved closer to home where he played wth such legends as Buddy Guy and slide master, J.B. Hutto. He formed a band that performed from Virginia to Toronto. However, Maynard eventually found that the lifestyle was burning him out. He moved back to the Vineyard, started a family and began working as a sign painter and boat varnisher.
But Maynard wasn’t destined to leave the music business for good. When other island musicians discovered there was an experienced blues player on an island that loves the blues, he was back behind the mic. His distinctive voice, expert slide guitar playing, and vastly entertaining stories of his time on the road have made him one of the favorites on the Vineyard music scene.
Two years ago, Maynard was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, and his struggle has taken him through chemo and radiation treatments, as well as surgery. Throughout the ordeal, Maynard has maintained his high spirits and refreshing sense of humor. He still performs when he can, including donating his time to entertain at island benefits.
Maynard’s son Milo has followed in his father’s footsteps, although his taste runs more towards traditional central Asian music. However, since his dad got sick, Milo has stepped up to fill in and sing the blues when Maynard can’t make it through an entire performance. With his gruff vocals and unique mannerisms, he’s as much of a showman as his charismatic father.
Maynard has been a speaker twice at the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and always participatates in the event's Survivor’s Lap. He is truly a power of example as someone who continues to embrace life and make others feel good throughout times of adversity.
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