Arthur
Websites:
https://citizenfreak.com/artists/110458-cavemen, https://citizenfreak.com/artists/97054-jaguars-les
Origin:
Jonquière, Québec, 🇨🇦
Biography:
Arthur – Quebec’s First Guitar Hero
Jean-Guy "Arthur" Cossette is a living legend in Quebec’s rock history, widely recognized as the province’s first true guitar hero. From his early days pioneering instrumental surf rock with Les Jaguars to his later work in psychedelic and garage rock, Arthur’s career has been defined by bold experimentation, innovative guitar techniques, and a rebellious spirit.
The Early Years: Les Jaguars & Instrumental Rock
Arthur first gained recognition as the lead guitarist of Les Jaguars, a high-energy instrumental rock band from Jonquière, Quebec. With their reverb-drenched surf sound, Les Jaguars became one of the most electrifying bands of the 1960s, producing classics like "Jaguar Shake" and "Guitare Jet." Arthur’s creative approach to the guitar—including piercing his own speakers to create unique distortion effects—set him apart as a true innovator.
However, by 1965, instrumental rock was fading in popularity, and Les Jaguars disbanded in 1966. Arthur, unwilling to disappear into obscurity, reinvented himself for the rapidly changing rock scene.
Reinvention as "Arthur" & Solo Career
In 1966, Arthur launched his solo career, fully embracing his new identity as a countercultural rock figure. Inspired by Antoine, the long-haired, free-spirited French singer-songwriter, Arthur became known for his rebellious attitude, psychedelic influences, and raw garage rock sound.
His first solo 45 RPM, "Dites-moi pourquoi" b/w "Maîtres de la guerre", fused gritty guitar work with the defiant spirit of French chanson, reflecting the youth movement’s growing political and social unrest. Between 1966 and 1971, Arthur recorded four solo singles, each showcasing a shift from surf-inspired instrumentals to a more experimental, garage-psychedelic sound.
In 1971, he released his only solo album, Long Jeu Ouest Turn, on RCA Gala. The album, an eclectic mix of country psychedelic experimentation, featured a Wanted poster of Arthur on the back cover, reinforcing his outlaw image in Quebec’s underground rock scene.
A Chameleon in Quebec Rock: Les Sinners & La Révolution Française
Arthur’s guitar wizardry and boundary-pushing creativity made him a sought-after musician. Over the years, he performed with several influential Quebec bands, including:
Les Cavemen: A raw garage rock band. Listen here: https://citizenfreak.com/titles/328035-cavemen-est-ce-un-garcon-ou-est-ce-une-fille-b-w-dites-lui-dong
Les Sinners: A major force in Quebec’s garage-psychedelic scene. listen here: https://citizenfreak.com/artists/103048-sinners-les
La Révolution Française: A politically charged rock band known for their progressive and folk-rock influences. Listen here: https://citizenfreak.com/artists/101910-revolution-francaise
With Les Sinners, Arthur stepped in following the death of their lead guitarist, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and fearless player.
Legacy & Resurgence
Despite his underground status, Arthur remains a cult figure in Quebec’s rock history. His pioneering guitar work with Les Jaguars, his psychedelic solo career, and his contributions to multiple groundbreaking bands showcase his enduring influence.
Today, Arthur is still celebrated as Quebec’s original guitar hero, a musician who refused to follow trends, instead forging his own uncompromising musical path.
-Robert Williston
