Welcome to the Ray's Gigs website!

Here's the latest - updated 1st August 2021

Wednesday 28 July 2021.

Wednesday 28 July 2021...6.45pm to 11.15pm...
IGB SUMMER SOCIAL at Neverland , Wandsworth Bridge Road, London SW6.
iGaming Business (IGB) is a business-to-business magazine focusing on the online gambling industry.
A newish venue for me as it is on the plot of land by the bridge that i bought a couple of cars from in
the 1980s and 1990s...Wandsworth Car Auctions.
Neverland is a huge beach club themed venue that backs on to The River Thames.
It is split with a covered space and a sandy open area full of day beds, huts & cabanas.
They have capacity for 400, and there are maybe 200 guests here tonight.
There are dance tunes being played , and a live sax player plays a few tunes to a backing track.
Lots of complimentary drinks and food including, various spirits including JD & Cokes,
various wines, beers, ciders and full BBQ buffet with burgers ,sausages, chicken, full salad dishes.
A great evening.
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Two shock news of musicians deaths.
I have seen both bands several times each on stage.
DUSTY HILL - ZZ Top bassist dies aged 72.
JOEY JORDISON - ex Slipknot drummer dies aged 46.
I was at that amazing Donington Festival show in 2004 when Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich went AWOL,
and JOEY JORDISON stood in at short notice for most of their set.
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Thursday 29 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to GEDDY LEE from RUSH who is 68 today.
See my Facebook page for a couple of photos i took of him.
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Thursday 29 July 2021.
6pm to 8.15pm...
SIR PETER BLAKE - Waddington Custot Gallery , 11 Cork Street, Mayfair, London W1.
Peter Blake "Time Traveller " Exhibition & "Peter Blake : Collage" book party.
Sir Peter Blake (now aged 89) is an English pop artist, best known for co-creating the sleeve design for the Beatles' album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band...along with many other album covers.
Over 100 guests here , with many outside on the pavement.
Sir Peter Blake is here in a wheelchair , and i get my photo taken with him...see my Facebook page...
There was a jazz quartet playing several tunes from 7pm.
Complimentary Gremillet champers, wines and canapés for all guests.
then
8.30pm to 9.30pm...
ZARI GALLERY - private view - 73 Newman Street, London W1.
This cool gallery is located just around the corner from the rear entrance of The 100 Club.
A small gallery but they had a proper barman shaking up some proper cocktails.
Complimentary vodka cocktails and gin cocktails for all guests.

Updated 29th July 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 27 July 2021.

Tuesday 27 July 2021.
TOM JONES live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Sir Tom plays the smallest venue on his UK summer tour to launch his recent album, released April 2021.
IT went to number one in the UK charts.
"Surrounded by Time" is his fourth album since 2010 with producer Ethan Johns.
It is another covers album mixing genres including Americana and Gospel.
Tom will be aged 81 when he tours this summer.
With over 100 million record sales, 36 Top 40 hits spanning five decades, a string of Grammy, Ivor Novello and Brit Awards to his name, Sir Tom Jones announces a very special and exclusive full album performance of ‘Surrounded by Time’.
This show sold out very quickly, and will be a "back to normal" capacity show for 2000.
Will certainly be a bit weird to see the stalls packed here , with folks shoulder to shoulder.
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No surprise that it was a mainly older crowd tonight.
No support tonight as Tom's band equipment take up all of the stage.
TOM JONES arrives on stage at 8.30pm and is on stage a mere 75 mins.
A nice stage production that includes a big screen mixing live footage and pre-recorded images.
When an artist says " this will be a special show to launch the new album" , you kind of know
it will not be a hits type show but many of the crowd were left disappointed as Tom DID NOT
PLAY ANY OF HIS HITS , even though his outdoor festival at the weekend was full of them.
The twelve tracks played tonight was the entire album in track order.
Tom's voice still sounds great, and he has interesting stage banter about how he had been at
this venue many times in the 1960s , 1970s and 1980s on various BBC tv shows.
It was a good show but it would been better if he had done an encore of some of his hits.
Full Tom Jones setlist played tonight...
I Won't Crumble
The Windmills of Your Mind (cover)
Popstar
No Hole in My Head
Talking Reality Television Blues
I Won’t Lie
This Is the Sea
One More Cup of Coffee (Valley Below) (Bob Dylan cover)
Samson and Delilah
Old Mother Earth
I’m Growing Old (Bobby Cole cover)
Lazarus Man

Updated 28th July 2021 Permalink

Monday 26 July 2021.

Monday 26 July 2021.
THE VACCINES + THE SNUTS play The Forum.
The Vaccines and special guests The Snuts make their hugely anticipated return to live performance in an exclusive gig for Radio X and Barclaycard.
Guitar band group The Vaccines have just announced their brand-new album Back In Love City which is due for release in September. They’ll be showcasing brand-new tunes and treating the audience to a few fan favourites.
West Lothian band The Snuts will be appearing as special guests. In April this year, they became the first Scottish band in 14 years to top the UK album chart, with their record W.L. debuting at number one.
Radio X’s Toby Tarrant will host the gig, which will also feature a DJ set from Radio X’s Dan O’Connell.
This show will be the first "back to normal" gig at this venue since March 2020.
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Everyone provides a negative covid test before we can enter the venue.
At last we have a proper "back to normal " hot n sweaty gig that features two uptempo guitar bands,
folks dancing,no social distancing, stage surfers , beers in the air and only a few wearing face coverings.
There are a few cameras dotted around the venue filming tonight for future use.
THE SNUTS arrived on stage at 7.30pm for their 30 mins set.
The band play a good set, and sound a bit like The Arctic Monkeys in many ways.
The crowd love them down the front, and sing and dance only to their short set.
THE VACCINES arrived on stage at 8.45pm and played for 60 mins.
The band have a full production with loads of lights and some horizontal strip lighting.
From the start, the fans are singing along and dancing along to their lively guitar based set.
Lots of their hits in the set including "Post Break-Up Sex" and "If You Wanna".
The Vaccines are always a great band to watch, but given the covid situation that messed up
live music gigs for the past 16 months, tonight was a magical return of a proper live music gig.
Full Vaccines setlist played tonight......
I Can't Quit
I Always Knew
Wreckin' Bar (Ra Ra Ra)
Wanderlust
Paranormal Romance (Live debut)
Wetsuit
Post Break-Up Sex
Your Love Is My Favourite Band
Back In Love City
Headphones Baby
Handsome
Let's Jump Off the Top
All My Friends Are Falling in Love
If You Wanna
All in White

Updated 27th July 2021 Permalink

Friday 23 July 2021.

Friday 23 July 2021.
JAMES BLUNT + ALFIE SHEARD live at The Royal Albert Hall.
This will be the first "back to normal" full capacity gig at this iconic venue since March 2020.
In the days before they are having other types of full capacity events here.
Blunt's first album has sold over 11 million copies worldwide, topping the UK Albums Chart and peaking at number two in the US. "You're Beautiful" was number one in the UK, the US and a dozen other countries. Back to Bedlam was the best-selling album of the 2000s in the UK,and is one of the best-selling albums in UK chart history.Blunt has since sold over 20 million records worldwide.
I saw James Blunt headline Hammersmith Apollo in 2008.
James Blunt returns for a full UK arena tour in Feb 2022.
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The venue is pretty much 95% full for tonight's show.
ALFIE SHEARD arrived on stage at 7.45pm and played for 30 mins.
Alfie Sheard is a singer-songwriter with a huge online audience. After one of his busking videos caught the attention of 'Ellen Degeneres', he was asked to make an appearance on her show where he also received a signed guitar from Ed Sheeran...he was like a younger James Blunt.
JAMES BLUNT arrived on stage at 8.45pm and played for 90 mins.
A nice big stage production which could easily be the one he will use for his forthcoming arena tour,
with lots of lights and three massive screens showing live footage of the show.
James Blunt has always been an easy target for naffness, as he has a lot of love songs.
The crowd is full of couples and girls, who are still screaming out "I love you James".
There are plenty of hits in his set including "You're Beautiful".
James knows how to handle the crowd and his wry humour always goes down well.
The sound quality is top notch, and his drummer was excellent.
He got the crowd to stand up after 45 mins, and they remained standing.
An enjoyable show, much better than expected.
Full JAMES BLUNT setlist played tonight...
How It Feels to Be Alive
Smoke Signals
Wisemen
High
Champions
Goodbye My Lover
I Really Want You
I Told You
Carry You Home
Stay the Night
Postcards
5 Miles
You're Beautiful
Same Mistake
So Long, Jimmy
OK (Robin Schulz cover)
Encore:
1973
Bonfire Heart
His posh singer-songwriter mate ELLIE GOULDING was in a Level 1 VIP box.
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Sat 24 July - Josh & Rachel's house-warming party for me in Burnham, Berkshire this evening.
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Monday 26 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to MICK JAGGER who is 78 today.
Happy Birthday to QUEEN drummer ROGER TAYLOR who is 72 today.

Updated 24th July 2021 Permalink

Thursday 22 July 2021.

Thursday 22 July 2121....6.45pm to 9.30pm...
STUDIO 7 BY CARTIER "private view" at The Saatchi Gallery, Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW3.
Studio 7 is a portrait exhibition celebrating the Maison’s seven most iconic creations across watches and jewellery: Trinity, Love, Juste Un Clou, Santos, Tank, Panthère and Ballon Bleu. For the very first time, an incredible show of your Cartier stories are told through a photographic journey, from the past to the present. Located on the ground floor of the Saatchi Gallery, the exhibition runs across four galleries.
Around 200 guests here with many glammed up females in nice outfits and heels.
This is the huge gallery where i went to opening night of The Rolling Stones "Exhibitionism".
Lots of images of French and British and American celebrities wearing Cartier back in the day.
Included was an image of Patti Smith from 1977 wearing a Cartier Tank wristwatch.
Mary McCartney took the more recent photos here on display.
Complimentary Cartier champers (yes they have their own champagne brand), Margerita cocktails,
gin & tonics and canapés for all guests...served by a small army of male waiters...
The display is on until 08 August 2021.
www.cartier.co.uk
Visit their website here for more info.

Updated 22nd July 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 20 July 2021.

Tuesday 20 July 2021.
WILL & THE PEOPLE live at Shepherds Bush Empire.
Re-opening party for this venues first "back to normal" gig since March 2020.
As it is lesser known bands, the tickets are only £6 each.
Will & The People are from London, consisting of frontman Will Rendle, his brother Jamie Rendle on bass, keyboard player Jim Ralphs and drummer Charlie Harman.
Formed in 2007, the band met at Glastonbury Festival and released their self-titled debut album in 2011. They followed up with ‘Friends’ in 2012 and ‘Whistleblower’ in 2015. The band also put out the 'B-Sides Collection' in 2020.
With their winning blend of folk with tinges of reggae, the band headlined at the 2013 Eurosonic Noorderslag festival in Groningen, and continue to tour extensively across the UK and Europe.
Support:
Pylons , Louis and the Shakes, Leon Tilbrook.
Leon Tilbrook is the son of Glenn Tilbrook (Squeeze).
Levels 2 and 3 will be closed as they do not want a full house on the first night back.
It is pretty much a warm-up to the Tom Jones sold out full capacity show next Tuesday.
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Around 600 folks here - 500 standing in the stalls and 100 seated in Level 1.
Lots of student types here, so maybe the headliners are popular in colleges and universities.
The three support bands played for around 25 mins each, all were decent enough.
WILL & THE PEOPLE arrive on stage at 9.25pm and play for 70 mins.
They are much livelier than the other bands, and get their loyal fans down the front dancing.
The singerr gets down to his underpants for their final two tracks.
They played a nice cover for their encore - The Pixies " Where Is My Mind?".
A good show.
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Wednesday 21 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to CAT STEVENS who is 73 today.
Cat left the music for many years , due to his conversion to Islam.
I did see him play a full show at Hammersmith Apollo in 2014.
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Wednesday 21 July 2021...6.15pm to 9.15pm
POLICY EXCHANGE "summer garden party" at Westminster Abbey, London SW1.
Around 500 guests here in these beautiful historic grounds, that date back hundreds of years.
Policy Exchange is a think tank based in London. In 2007 it was described in The Daily Telegraph as "the largest, but also the most influential think tank on the right". The Washington Post said Policy Exchange's reports "often inform government policy in Britain."
At 7.15pm we had a few speeches , including well known politician MICHAEL GOVE.
Also here is the long time party goer V&A chairman Nicholas Coleridge.
He is the former president of Condé Nast...attended hundreds of parties while he was with them...
Complimentary white wines, rose wines, cobra beers and lots of different canapés
including cheese burgers, prawn tempura , salmon etc.
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Thursday 22 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to GEORGE CLINTON who is 80 today.
Happy Birthday to DON HENLEY who is 74 today.

Updated 21st July 2021 Permalink

Monday 19 July 2021

Monday 19 July 2021.
From today - Long awaited "life goes back to normal" date for gigs and theatre without social distancing.
Gig goers can stand shoulder to shoulder at venues, which may feel very strange at first.
There are several nice outdoor venues putting on shows for the first time this summer.
Pubs can go back to serving customers when they are standing at the bar, instead of
drinks being brought to your table.
Nightclubs can open up again, after being totally closed since March 2020.
Covid is still about, but the vaccines are doing a good job , so hopefully it does not get bad enough to have another lockdown in Sept/Oct, as that would be a total catastrophe.
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Monday 19 July 1995 - it was 26 years ago today.
THE ROLLING STONES at Brixton Academy - one of my greatest gigs ever.
Me and a work mate Ray Fielding (Noel's dad) took the morning off work to queue at Virgin Megastore
for the £25 wristbands that went on sale the day before the gig.
We were a few rows from the front, dead centre, and they were on stage for 2 hours 10 mins.
A week later i would see them headline Wembley Stadium, where The Black Crowes supported.
Visit my Facebook page at lunchtime for a photo from that gig.
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Monday 19 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to BRIAN MAY who is 74 today.
My first ever show i went to at Hammersmith Odeon was Dec 1973 where Queen
supported Mott The Hoople.n
The basement of his West London house was flooded earlier this week, after that freak rain.
Visit my Facebook page at lunchtime for a photo of us together.
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Monday 19 July 2021.
Several venues in London are hosting "Freedom Day" events, so we chose to be in
Kings Road, Chelsea on this lovely summers evening.
6pm to 7.30pm - "Freedom Party".
BLUEBIRD , 350 Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW3.
This massive bar and restaurant is very popular with Chelsea folks at The World's End section.
It has a huge outside terrace and a huge space inside.
So plenty of space tonight for paying customers in one area and the party folks in another.
Complimentary Gin & Tonics for all those at "The Freedom Party".
then
8pm to 9.30pm - "Freedom Party".
STICKS N SUSHI, 113 Kings Rosd, Chelsea, London SW3.
This trendy sushi brand have several branches across London.
Complimentary Whiskey Sour cocktails along with sushi dishes including
Tempura Shrimp and Crab Courgettes with wasabi for all guests.
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Tuesday 20 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to SEX PISTOLS drummer PAUL COOK who is 65 today.
Paul is playing UK shows with his band The Professionals in Sept and Oct.
Paul spent his birthday in court giving evidence against John Lydon in the "Pistol " court case.
Unsurprisingly, Paul said " The Pistols are now probably gone for good".
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Happy Birthday to CARLOS SANTANA who is 74 today.
I have seen him on stage over a dozen times since Hammersmith Odeon in 1976.

Updated 19th July 2021 Permalink

Wednesday 14 July 2021.

Wednesday 14 July 2021.
A friend reminded me of these two Southall Kid benefit shows i went to 42 years ago this week.
Pete Townshend Band,Misty,Ruts Rainbow Theatre, London 13.07.1979
Clash,Aswad,Members Rainbow Theatre, London 14.07.1979
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Friday 16 July 2021.
American rock band CINDERELLA has lost two members in one day. On the same day guitarist Jeff LaBar died at age 58, keyboard player Gary Corbett has also passed away.
I saw Cinderella three times back in their heyday.
Cinderella Dominion Theatre , London 23.11.1988. singer has a great voice .
Cinderella + Slaughter Hammersmith Odeon , London 19.01.1991 Great double bill from USA
members of Ozzy Osbourne Band and Def Leppard came on stage for encore.
Cinderella + Slaughter Hammersmith Odeon , London 20.01.1991
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Saturday 17 July 2021.
THE SEX PISTOLS --- " the only notes that count , are the ones that come in wads".
Former Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones has told the High Court he thinks Johnny Rotten is “a total d***” in a bitter dispute over the use of the punk band’s songs in an upcoming television series.
Mr Jones and the band’s former drummer, Paul Cook, are suing the Sex Pistols’ former lead singer, real name John Lydon, for not allowing their songs to be used in " Pistol ", which is directed by Danny Boyle and is due to air next year.
The six-part series, which is being made by Disney, is based on a 2016 memoir by Mr Jones called “Lonely Boy: Tales from a Sex Pistol”. Mr Jones and Mr Cook argue that, under the terms of a band agreement made in 1998, decisions regarding licensing requests can be determined on a “majority rules basis”.
Steve Jones was speaking from America when he now lives.
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Saturday 17 July 1996 - it was 25 years ago today.
THE SEX PISTOLS played one of the greatest gigs of all time when they played
Shepherds Bush Empire on their "Filthy Lucre" reunion tour.
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Sunday 18 July 2021.
Shock news that STEEL PANTHER have lost their bass player.
Steel Panther announce departure of bassist Lexxi Foxx: “The end of an era” Steel Panther have confirmed that bassist Lexxi Foxx has left the band, after 21 years in the line-up. Foxx, whose real name is Travis Haley, was one of the glam-metal group's original members when the ey formed in Los Angeles in 2000.
Steel Panther - I have seen this very entertaining glam metal band several times.
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The British Formula 1 Grand Prix is held today at Silverstone.
An incredible 140,000 capacity sold out crowd will be there, despite it being before 19 July,
as it is classed as a special "covid test event" .
It will be the biggest crowd in the UK since the start of the pandemic.

Updated 15th July 2021 Permalink

Friday 09 July 2021.

Friday 09 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to MARC ALMOND who is 64 today.
Happy Birthday to JIM KERR who is 62 today.
Happy Birthday to JACK WHITE who is 46 today.
AC/DC vocalist BON SCOTT would have been 75 today.
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Sunday 11 July 2021 - EURO 2020 Football Final at Wembley Stadium.
Live on tv 8pm...ENGLAND play ITALY....
The country will come to a standstill for this mega game.
Over 30 million people in England are expected to watch it.
I was again be at The Fan Zone in Trafalgar Square to see it.
This means I will have seen ALL SEVEN of England's games there.
Thousands of noisy England supporters up the West End in the afternoon.
A 1000 of them are on the steps of St Martin's Church , Trafalgar Square singing and letting off
fireworks and flares , and 30 mins before the game they tear down the fence and barricades that are
protecting the National Gallery and climb up to every vantage view to look at the big screens at
Trafalgar Square , and the police decide it's safer to let them watch the match.
England started great, but it was not to be and we sadly lost on penalties, despite Italy
missing their opening penalty.
The boys did us proud by getting to the final, but we missed three out of five penalties.
At 6.15pm PIPS TAYLOR was the DJ for an hour....I have seen her spinning tunes at
a few West End launch events.
At 7.30pm Girl trio ATOMIC KITTEN performed the recent football re-working of their hit "Whole Again",
"Southgate You're The One (Football's Coming Home Again)".
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Monday 12 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to WILKO JOHNSON who is 74 today.
See my Facebook page for a photo of us together.
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Happy Birthday to CHRISTINE McVIE from Fleetwood Mac who is 78 today.
See my Facebook page for a photo of us together.
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Tuesday 13 July 2021.
13 July 1985 - it was 36 years ago that the LIVE AID concert took place at Wembley Stadium.
I have been to over 7000 gigs, and always say that this amazing day was my number one fave gig.
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THE STAVES play two shows at St John at Hackney Church , Hackney, East London.
6.30pm and 9pm..Indie folk trio of sisters from Watford play tracks from their albums.
This huge historic church is over 200 years old , and has a normal capacity of 2000.
For these socially distanced shows ,the capacity will be capped at 500.
400 downstairs and 100 upstairs.
It is just up the road from The Round Chapel, where i saw Liam Gallagher in June 2019.
Their fourth album " Good Woman " was released in Feb 2021 on Atlantic in the UK.
They return to London to headline Shepherds Bush Empire on 11 Oct 2021.
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I would not normally trek across London to see this type of gig , but it is a gig drought due to covid and I wanted to see the 5 million pounds refurbishment of this church which now looks really great inside,
very modern throughout and now includes a top notch sound system.
The money was raised by selling part of their vicarage ground nearby and using the profits from the flats sold.
There was no support band and The Staves play a full band set of 60 mins.
Only two sisters here tonight, as i think one has just had a baby, or is about to have one.
A nice polite respectful crowd who stayed very quiet during the songs.
The sisters have a good rapport on stage with their loyal fans.
Their folky pop tracks and show ticked along ok but nothing really exciting here for me.
Some nice Fleetwood Mac type female harmonies, but it felt a bit samey to me.
The audience gave the band a full standing ovation at the end.

Updated 9th July 2021 Permalink

Monday 05 July 2021

Monday 05 July 2021.
05 July 2014 - it was seven years ago today that THE LIBERTINES headlined Hyde Park.
An amazing gamble by the promoters but their big London reunion show was an incredible 65,000 sell out.
I went to this show , where over a dozen fans got injured in a front of stage crush at the start.
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Monday 05 July 2021....6.45pm to 9.15pm...
COLNAGHI GALLERY - summer party - 26 Bury Street, St James's, London SW1.
Complimentary drinks including some delicious Pisco Sour cocktails , along with Gin & Tonics,
wines and beers for all the guests at this cool gallery.
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Wed 07 July - Happy Birthday to RINGO STARR who is 81 today.
Wed 07 July - EURO 2020 Football - second semi-final at Wembley Stadium.
8pm live on tv - ENGLAND 2 Denmark 1
I was again at The Fan Zone in Trafalgar Square.
Since the last England game here they have expanded the site and put artificial grass down everywhere.
300 are in an overflow area where they have closed the streets near the church at Trafalgar Square
700 originally, so now there are 1000 folks in total.
A fantastic atmosphere, as folks celebrated wildly when we scored and at the end.
6pm to 7pm BBC DJ SEAN ROWLEY played an hour of cool hits from the 1980s and 1990s.
7.20pm LIGHTNING SEEDS played two of their hit singles which were "The Life of Riley " and
their mega football anthem "Three Lions (Footballs Coming Home".
England won , with a dodgy penalty decision for the second goal...but who cares?
England reach their first major football final since they won the World Cup in 1966...amazing..
After the game , The West End was gridlock as fans and cars tooting their horns, decended there.

Updated 4th July 2021 Permalink

Thursday 01 July 2021.

Thursday 01 July 2021.
LONDON ART WEEK - private views - 6pm to 9.30pm
Galleries across St James's, Mayfair and Soho and elsewhere are holding private views
to showcase the open house gallery week.
Galleries all had complimentary drinks including sparkling wines, normal wines and beers.
GROSVENOR GALLERY - 35 Bury Street, St James's, London SW1.
This was the only gallery of the four that insisted drinks to be had outside on the pavement.
SIR NICHOLAS COLERIDGE was here...who is Chairman of the Victoria and Albert Museum, ex supremo at Condé Nast, prolific novelist and author of his memoir ‘The Glossy Years’.
then
COLNAGHI GALLERY - 26 Bury Street, St James's, London SW1.
then
THADDAEUS ROOAC GALLERY - 37 Dover Street, Mayfair, London W1.
then
NEON GALLERY - 13 Soho Square, Soho, London W1.
www.londonartweek.co.uk
Visit their website here for info and a walking map of all the galleries involved.
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Happy Birthday to DEBBIE HARRY who is 76 today...yes 76.
Another artist who i have seen on stage over 20 times since the late 1970s.
See my Facebook page of a photo I took of Debbie in 1978 at a London gallery opening.
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01 July 1977 - 44 years ago today THE SEX PISTOLS "Pretty Vacant" was released.
Still sounds utterly fantastic every time I hear it.
I am on the front cover of the New Zealand release of "Pretty Vacant".
The still was taken from The Sex Pistols Notre Dame Hall , London show in 1976.
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Saturday 03 July 2021.
03 July 1971 - JIM MORRISON of The Doors died 50 years ago today.
He died in Paris France , and was buried there.
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EURO 2020 megaclash 8pm - England play Ukraine.
I was again watching it at The Fan Zone in Trafalgar Square.
Over 20 million are expected to watch it on TVs and big screens around the UK.
A great atmosphere as it is a Saturday night, and folks are drinking.
Fans are singing loudly, and the place erupts each time England score.
An easy 4-0 win for England.
On the way home, we see hundreds gathered and singing in Piccadilly Circus.

Updated 1st July 2021 Permalink

Friday 25 June 2021.

Friday 25 June 2021.
CRAIG DUFFY MEMORIAL WAKE at The Forum....7.30pm to 11pm..
Well known band tour manager Craig Duffy died in a car crash on 21 May in Somerset.
He had long stints as tour manager for Blur and Duran Duran and also tour managed Gorillaz, Fugees, Franz Ferdinand, Lily Allen, Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madness and U2 at various times.
Around 300 guests here at his fave live music venue.
All of BLUR are here but surprisingly nobody from Duran Duran was here.
Original Damned drummer Rat Scabies was here.
I saw plenty off punk t-shirts here, 3 X Clash, 2 X Pistols, I X Damned, 1 X Buzzcocks.
Mainly an older crowd of family, friends and folks from the music industry including
promoter reps from the likes of Live Nation and Metropolis and pr folks, roadies, truck drivers etc.
Djs played tunes and speeches were given , with photos of Craig on the big screen.
Tables downstairs and general seating upstairs with food and drinks including a bottle
of Laurent Perrier champers for each table and group of guests.
Well known band touring caterers "Eat To The Beat" provided the food.
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Saturday 26 June 2021
Happy Birthday to MICK JONES who is 66 today.
I was lucky to see him loads of times on stage with his various bands dating back to
Sept 1976 when I saw The Clash at The 100 Club Punk Rock Festival.
Check my Facebook page for a photo of us together.
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Sunday 27 June 2021.
I can remember buying this show on bootleg video back in the 1990s.
Check it out on YouTube...excellent quality and the band are on fire.
SEX PISTOLS The filthy lucre tour, Tokyo (JAP), 16 novembre 1996.
Oddly they have added a couple of tracks from Phoenix Festival 1996 at the end of the footage.
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Monday 28 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to MEL BROOKS who is 95 today...yes 95.
Mel Brooks is an American actor, comedian and filmmaker , with many great films under his belt.
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Tuesday 29 June 2021.
EURO 2020 megaclash as England play Germany....5pm kick-off.
I was again up at the Trafalgar Square Fan Zone to watch it.
It was raining when we arrived in the West End, but thankfully no rain during the game.
The three group games were for key workers only but tonight was public ballot so more rowdy.
A great atmosphere, and folks dancing on the tables and hugging when England scored.
Over 35,000 people applied for the 350 pairs of tickets.
A great win for England.
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Wednesday 30 July 2021.
Happy Birthday to ANDY SCOTT from THE SWEET who is 72 today.
He is the sole surviving member of this great glam rock band from the early 1970s.
In Dec 1973 they were the first of 52 shows that I saw saw at the legendary Rainbow Theatre.
My last show there was in 1981 and the venue closed in 1982 and was left empty until 1995
when the building was taken over by a Brazilian church which is still there.

Updated 26th June 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 22 June 2021.

Tuesday 22 June 2021.
ENGLAND 1 CZECH 0.
I am back at The Trafalgar Square Fan Zone for the third time.
It is pretty much the same set up, with 700 key workers and their guests.
A nice atmosphere, nothing too rowdy.
A bit overcast, but thankfully no rain.
England go through to the last 16, and Scotland go home.
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23 June 1996 - 25 years ago today.
THE SEX PISTOLS played Finsbury Park on their 1996 "Filthy Lucre" reunion tour.
I saw them play five mega gigs on that tour...3 X UK and Paris and Milan.
----------------------
Wednesday 23 June 2021.
CROUCHY'S EUROS 2020 LIVE at The Troubadour Theatre, Wembley.
Ex England footballer Peter Crouch is now a tv presenter.
Peter is a massive music fan , and i have seen him at a few gigs including KASABIAN.
BBC 1 tv recording of this show that is on throughout the EURO 2020.
Only around 40 punters in the audience ,due to covid restrictions.
From 8pm to 10pm we watch the Portugal 2 France 2 game in the tv room, on big screens.
We then are each given two drinks tokens for wines/beers and a food carton.
After the game we are ushered into the garden area where the show is recorded.
At 10.30pm Peter Crouch and co-host Maya Jama come out to warm up the crowd.
The show is fully live from 10.45pm to 11.30pm...so very late to be in Wembley.
Other guests included...
Ex England goalkeeper David Seaman.
Ex Wales captain Ashley Williams.
Singer Tom Grennan who had trials for Luton as a footballer , when he was a teenager.
Very enjoyable evening.
---------------------
Thursday 24 June 2021.
RICKY GERVAIS live at The Forum.
Ricky Gervais is back at this venue as part of his small venue warm up shows
to test out new material for his UK "Super Nature" Arena tour later in the year.
It will be his second of five Thursday's at this venue.
Pretty much the same set-up as last week, with 500 punters seated.
EMILY ATACK is upstairs on a VIP table....she headlines The Forum on 16 October.
Sean McLoughlin is again the support and starts at 7.30pm for a good 15 mins set.
His set was 50% different from last week.
RICKY GERVAIS arrives on stage at 8pm and performs for 70 mins which was 5 mins longer
than last week....his set was also around 50% the same as last week....plenty of taboo subjects.
A very enjoyable show, with many funny bits.
---------------------
Friday 25 June 2021.
Always good for THE SEX PISTOLS to be shown again - Friday evening.
SKY ARTS Sex Pistols "Never Mind The Bollocks" documentary.
SKY ARTS Sex Pistols "They'll Always Be An England" .
Superb live concert film from their five nights at Brixton Academy in 2007 - I was at all five.

Updated 23rd June 2021 Permalink

Saturday 19 June 2021.

Saturday 19 June 2021.
SKY ARTS 6.45pm - KYLIE MINOGUE live at Earls Court Arena 2005.
I went to one of these stunning Kylie shows at this venue.
Oddly it was the rest day between the four CREAM re-union shows i went to at
The Royal Albert Hall that year.
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Sunday 20 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to BRIAN WILSON who is 79 today.
I have seen Brian on stage over 20 times.
Remember those amazing comeback shows at The Royal Festival Hall in 2002 and 2004?
If was at all six shows there in 2002 and three of the six shows in 2004.
Multi-night stints with the likes of Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey
and many other musicians turning up to see this Beach Boys legend.
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Happy Birthday to LIONEL RICHIE who is 72 today.
I have seen Lionel on stage several times.
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Monday 21 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to RAY DAVIES who is 77 today.
I have seen Ray three times with The Kinks since 1978 , and several times as a solo artist.
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Tuesday 22 June 2021.
22 June 2017 - It was four years ago today that i saw KRAFTWERK play The Royal Albert Hall.
It was an excellent 3-D visual show where the audience were given 3-D glasses.
See my Facebook page for a photo.
I first saw them in 1975 at Hammersmith Odeon when I thought they were some kind of
German novelty act , as i was into guitar led bands only back then.

Updated 19th June 2021 Permalink

Thursday 17 June 2021.

Thursday 17 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to CHRIS SPEDDING who is 77 today.
Happy Birthday to MICHAEL MONROE who is 59 today.
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Thursday 17 June 2021 - RICKY GERVAIS live at The Forum.
This is one of his warm-up shows to test out new material for his upcoming UK arena tour.
I used to listen to Ricky when he was a DJ with XFM Radio in the 1990s.
Pretty amazing how he has become such a major name in the UK and North America.
It is another of those 500 capacity events in this venue that normally holds 2000.
Support act Sean McLoughlin performed a decent 15 mins set.
RICKY GERVAIS arrived on stage at 8pm and performed for around 65 mins.
He was very funny, although the set felt a bit short.
For these warm up shows the tickets are half the price of the arena tour so i suppose
Ricky will be saving the 90 mins sets for the main arena tour.
---------------------
Friday 18 June 2021 - EURO 2020 - megaclash as England play Scotland at Wembley Stadium.
Who can forget that incredible game between them in EURO 1996 , with that superb
Gazza goal and celebration....the game is live on tv at 8pm...
Fan zones are showing it on big screens all around the UK, including Trafalgar Square.
Hordes of Scottish fans have decended on London's West End to drink and sing.
We are back inside Trafalgar Square to watch it on the big screens.
Rain forecast for today and we had plenty of it , so umbrellas were up and event staff
giving out free ponchos as no cover for any of the 700 folks here.
Due to covid rules all the screenings here will have the guests sat at tables.
Only noticed one table of Scottish fans on our side.
A draw seemed a fair result.
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Happy Birthday to PAUL McCARTNEY who is 79 today.
I have been lucky to have seen him on stage over 20 times , dating back to Wings shows
in 1975, 1976 and 1979.
See my Facebook page to see some photos from a Mary McCartney book launch in 2010
where both Macca and Ringo turned up to the small gallery in Chelsea.

Updated 17th June 2021 Permalink

Wednesday 16 June 2021.

Wednesday 16 June 2021.
It was 15 years ago today when I went to a great music awards event, followed
by a FOO FIGHTERS secret gig.
16 June 2006.FOO FIGHTERS live at The Camden Underworld , London.Tomorrow night they headline
to some 50,000 fans in Hyde Park but tonight its a fan club only secret gig for only 300 fans but
true to his word The Foo Fighters tour manager has put our names on the guest list after meeting
him that afternoon.Its very,very,very hot in here.Foo Fighters were due to play for 90 mins
but they finish after 75 mins and do not bother with the 3 song encore. Some say it was because
of the curfew (it turns into a disco at 10.30) but it was clearly that all the band were just
suffering the extreme heat in the venue.Loads of great songs here like "Monkey Wrench","Times Like
These", "DOA", "Breakout","Stacked Actors" ,"My Hero", "Generator" and "All My Life" .I came out
soaking with sweat so i dread to think what state the band were in . A mega gig it was........
16 June 2006.Noon to 5pm.Nordoff Robbins Music
Therapy Silver Clef Awards At The Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London.
Lots of big acts and music industry legends here for this charity event.
About 500 seated for 3 course dinner but tonight we are part of the 50 people standing. A long
affair with dinner, awards, auction ,raffle etc.
Those here The Foo Fighters sitting with Brian May,The Eagles, Ozzy,Sharon and Kelly Osbourne,
Editors, Cheap Trick,Girls Aloud, Kaiser Chiefs,Paul Carrack , Myleene Klass, Linda Lewis and
Patti Boyd.The free booze is flowing and The Eagles have a lot of security with them but the
highlight was chatting to the drummer of The Foo Fighters and he told us about the secret gig at
The Underworld that night the band were playing and he kindly put us on the guest list for it
by getting the tour manager to take our names.
A very enjoyable afternoon event.............

Updated 16th June 2021 Permalink

Saturday 12 June 2021.

Saturday 12 June 2021.
Today is RECORD STORE DAY.
Get down there early to buy some nice limited edition vinyl.
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Sunday 13 June 2021.
Live on BBC1 2pm - opening EURO Football Championship game for England who play Croatia.
The game at Wembley Stadium looks like 25% capacity - 22,000 fans.
There are many Fan Zones all over the UK to watch it on big screens including Trafalgar Square.
Some Fan Zones need an advance ticket or reservation for entry.
High expections again for England as usual , so hopefully they can at least get to the semi-finals.
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We were in Trafalgar Square to see England beat Croatia 1-0.
The two stunning huge fountains are in full flow before the game.
Around 700 key workers and their guests sitting at tables.
Order your drinks and food from your table QR code.
A great atmosphere on this hot and sunny day.
Two massive main screens, and one smaller one at the side.
London Mayor SADIQ KHAN is here talking to the media and makes a speech to the crowd.
He watches all the game with friends, and is happy to pose for selfies.
After the game we went to the nearby St James's Park for a couple of hours.
A random sighting of FEEDER singer Grant Nicolas sitting on the grass with a friend.
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Monday 14 June 2021.
Boris Johnson makes an announcement about the 21 June "back to normal " date.
Due to covid cases rising again , it has been delayed for four weeks.
This will mess up hundreds of indoor and outdoor events that were working to the post 21 June date.
I.e. the four big shows at Kenwood House at the end of June will be postponed to August.
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Happy Birthday to BOY GEORGE who is 60 today.
I have seen Culture Club several times including four shows in their 1983 heyday.
One at The Dominion and three at Hammersmith Odeon when i worked front stage security.
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Happy Birthday to Slade former member JIM LEA who is 72 today.
I have seen Slade a dozen times including three times at Hammersmith Odeon in 1974 during their heyday.
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Tuesday 15 June 2021.
Another ex member of Slade has a birthday - NODDY HOLDER is 75 today.

Updated 11th June 2021 Permalink

Wednesday 09 June 2021.

Wednesday 09 June 2021....2.30pm to 6.30pm...
LONDON CONCOURS 2021 welcomes 100 of the most astonishing examples of automotive endeavour into the beautiful five-acre Honourable Artillery Company Gardens , City Road, London EC1.
(Moorgate and Old Street tube stations are the nearest).
There will be over 100 rare and exotic machines coming to the first major automotive event of 2021 and – as ever – it's a selection of cars worthy of any of the most prestigious motoring events in the world.
www.londonconcours.co.uk
Visit their website here for more info and to buy tickets.
Tickets are £25 for general admission for Tues and Wed and Thurs this week.
--------------------
A lovely sunny day in this field hidden on all four sides by the office blocks.
Over 500 folks here including ex Top Gear tv presenter RICHARD HAMMOND.
He was one of the many speakers talking about cars.
All the iconic carmakers from the 1960s and 1970s here.
The gleaming condition of these cars is top notch.
Also a few motorbikes including a lovely 1974 Kawasaki 750cc Triple.
All guests got a complimentary copy of the current Esquire magazine on departure as they were one of the sponsors.

Updated 9th June 2021 Permalink

Saturday 05 June 2021.

Saturday 05 June 2021.
SKY ARTS 11pm - BLACK SABBATH live in Birmingham 04 Feb 2017 - their last ever show.
I saw one of their two last ever London shows at The 02 Arena a couple of days before this show.
I have seen Black Sabbath around 35 times since 1974, when they headlined Hammersmith Odeon.
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SKY ARTS 9pm - Sat and Sun are showing highlights of previous Download Festivals.
BBC2 10.30pm - TINA TURNER live 2009.
I have seen Tina live several times including Ike and Tina Turner in 1974 at Hammersmith Odeon.
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Happy Birthday to IRON MAIDEN drummer NICKO MCBRAIN who is 69 today.
I have seen Iron Maiden around 35 times since 1980 when they supported Judas Priest.
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Happy Birthday to PSYCHEDELIC FURS front man RICHARD BUTLER who is 65 today.
I have seen him with the Furs around 15 times since 1979 when they were a support act.
I have also seen him with his side project Love Spit Love when the Furs were on hiatus.
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Sunday 06 June 2021.
SKY ARTS 3pm - The Killers live at The Royal Albert Hall 2009....I was at this great show...
SKY ARTS 7.15pm - Metallica live in San Francisco 2019.
SKY ARTS 10.30pm - Iron Maiden "Flight 666 " documentary.
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Monday 07 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to TOM JONES who is 81 today.
I have seen Tom live around a dozen times since 1989.
Tom is playing a full UK tour throughout this summer.
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Tuesday 08 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to BONNIE TYLER who is 70 today.
I have seen her perform three times along with a couple of guest appearances.
1988 - headlining Hammersmith Odeon
2012 - supporting Status Quo at The 02 Arena
2019 - headlining The Palladium
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Happy Birthday to MICK HUCKNALL who is 61 today.
I have seen Simply Red live around 20 times since 1985 when i saw them three times
supporting soul legend JAMES BROWN at Hammersmith Odeon.
I also saw him a couple of times when he fronted THE FACES.
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Tuesday 08 June 2021...5.30pm to 7.30pm...private view...
Changing Room Gallery,1 Hopkins Street, Soho, London W1.
Great to be mooching around Soho in the sunshine.
The old Soho is disappearing quickly, as more and more overpriced luxury apartments are going up.
Changing Room Gallery Presents 'Thirst Prize' showcasing works created during RES. 002 with Corbin Shaw and Celeste McEvoy.
Both artists have created new works which they will exhibit beside each other recreating conversations during their duo residency. Showcasing their work at ZeroOne’s space located in the heart of Soho. Formerly a Victorian primary school.
Around 100 cool arty folks at this gallery near Berwick Street.
Complimentary vodka and orange & vodka and raspberry drinks for all the guests.
This exhibition is on from 08 June to 12 June - free admission
Afterwards I saw a punk poster on the wall from my friend MAL-ONE
Check out his release on Record Store Day Saturday 12 June 2021.
I took a photo of the poster that is now up on my Facebook page.

Updated 4th June 2021 Permalink

Wednesday 02 June 2021

Wednesday 02 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to CHARLIE WATTS who is 80 today.
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Happy Birthday to TONY HADLEY who is 61 today.
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Thursday 03 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to SUZI QUATRO who is 71 today.
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Happy Birthday to IAN HUNTER who is 82 today, yes 82.
I have seen him on stage over 20 times since 1973.
Mott The Hoople + Queen at Hammersmith Odeon - Dec 1973.
My first of over 2000 shows i have seen at that venue.
All of their great TOTP appearances in 1972 and 1973 got me hooked for life.
1975 - Hunter Ronson Band at Hammersmith Odeon.
1979 - Hunter Ronson Band at Hammersmith Odeon.
1989 - Hunter Ronson Band at The Dominion Theatre.
1994 - Mick Ronson Tribute Show at Hammersmith Apollo....with many special guests.
At least once on every solo tour since 1987.
2010 - all five Mott The Hoople reunion shows at Hammersmith Apollo.
2013 - Mott The Hoople at The 02 Arena.
2019 - both Mott The Hoople shows at Shepherds Bush Empire.
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Back in July 2010 I witnessed a very angry Ian Hunter when he joined Down n Outz when they supported ELP at The High Voltage Festival in Victoria Park, East London.
Down n Outz feature Def Leppards Joe Elliot and members of the Quireboys playing their fave Mott The Hoople related tracks.First we get a neat 10 minute version of Elton Johns "Love Lies Bleeding".Then its tracks from the "My Re Generation" album inc "Overnight Angels","Shouting And Pointing","One Of The Boys","England Rocks" and "Rock n Roll Queen" then Ian Hunter joins them for "Once Bitten Twice Shy" and "Who Do You Love?".They are about to launch into "All The Young Dudes" when the stage manager says "no ,your 80 mins is up".Ian Hunter is furious and runs to the side of stage with his acoustic guitar above his head and is about to smash it over the stage manager when roadies and security intervene.A school boy error really as all stage times were prompt today and they were a support band and not the headline act so its their own fault for not keeping an eye on the clock....
See my Facebook page Thursday lunchtime for a photo of Ian with myself.
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Thursday 03 June 2021....4pm to 4.30pm....
JAMES BARNOR - ACCRA/LONDON : A RETROSPECTIVE - at The Serpentine Gallery, London W2.
This is a show of warmth and character, like the photographer himself, James Barnor. Born in Accra, Ghana, the 92 year old photographer has captured the beauty and excitement of changes in Ghana during it’s independence from the British in 1957 and then recorded 1960s London.
His portraits are exquisite. Several front covers for Drum magazine were captured in West London, there are some great images of sixties fashion, cars, people. In the late 1970s Barnor returned to Ghana and worked there as a government photographer and then portraitist for 20 years.
Includes photographs from a session he had with Muhammed Ali.
Doubt many people had a camera in Ghana, back in the 1950s.
From 19th May - 24th October, Serpentine North Gallery, closed on Mondays.
Free admission but they prefer to pre-book your time before 21 June, due to covid restrictions.
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6pm to 8pm.
JR : CHRONICLES - private view - Saatchi Gallery, Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW3.
Whenever I come to this huge gallery space I always think of when I attended that great opening night
for The Rolling Stones exhibition in 2016 when all the band turned up.
There was over 800 there that night, but tonight is more like 200 due to covid restrictions.
JR was here at lunchtime for the press view , but did not see him this evening.
This was the largest solo museum exhibition to date of the internationally recognised French artist JR, featuring some of his most iconic projects from the past fifteen years. Curated by Sharon Matt Atkins and Drew Sawyer from the Brooklyn Museum, JR: Chronicles traces JR's career from his early documentation of graffiti artists as a teenager in Paris to his large-scale architectural interventions in cities worldwide and recent digitally collaged murals that create collective portraits of diverse communities.
Born in 1983, JR is pretty much like a French Banksy.
The exhibition is over nine rooms including a room showing his short films and speeches.
He has been involved in some incredible projects around the world.
He covered rooftops in a Kenyan slum with weather protected vinyl images of his art.
He went into the slums of Brazil , and managed to put his images all over the area.
He refuses to work with any sponsors.
All guests got a goodie bag on departure.
www.saatchigallery.com
Visit their website here for more info, and to buy tickets....£9 during the week and £12 at weekends.

Updated 2nd June 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 01 June 2021.

Tuesday 01 June 2021.
Happy Birthday to RONNIE WOOD who is 74 today.
I have seen him many times playing with The Rolling Stones, The Faces and solo.
I will put up a photo on Facebook later of Ronnie and myself.
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Happy Birthday to TOM ROBINSON who is 71 today.
I have seen Tom on stage over 20 times since those early TRB gigs in 1977.
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01 June 2011 - it was 10 years ago i attended this surreal RINGO STARR event.
First was The Ringo Starr Press Conference and then later Kings Of Leon gig.
First was 12.30 to 7pm.
Ringo Starr And His All Starr Band press conference.Meet 12.30 at Embankment tube station.
1pm bus leaves for secret location.(a bit of a Magical Mystery Tour as such).Only 30 people on the bus from major UK news folks inc BBC ,The Sun and errr raysgigs.com.We used a Greyhound Bus who have started up in the UK the past couple of years.We got given a press release by them stating an incredible list of songs that the term Greyhound Bus has been used in.Its a full 2 hours on the bus through South London deep into the lovely Surrey countryside where we arrive at Dunsfold Aerodrome,Godalming,Surrey.Inside Hanger 86 there are around 100 more media folks from all over Europe.Loads of tv crews.We have some freebie sarnies,pastries and coffees.Ringo Starr And His All Starr Band come out one by one.They play a four song 20 mins set."Boys" sung by Ringo."Free Ride" sung by Edgar Winter."Broken Wings" sung by Mister Mister singer Richard Page and finally "With A Little Help From My Friends" sung by Ringo.
We then had a 25 mins Q and A session.Ringo was professional and relaxed with his answers.Only around 150 here in total so a very nice exclusive event.View the event on
www.muzu.tv.The 28 date European Tour starts on June 04 and includes Hampton Court on 17 June.
Two hours to get back but as Live Nation are the promoters of Ringo Starr and Kings Of Leon half the bus was on the guest list to review Kings Of Leon so we stopped off at the 02 on the way back which was a good result and got off .......then Kings Of Leon + The Whigs live at The 02 Arena,London.This was the replacement show for the one in Dec 2010 when their tour bus caught fire at the venue.Up first we have The Whigs who play a decent 30 mins set. Kings Of Leon are pretty boring apart from a couple of good tracks including "Sex on Fire".

Updated 1st June 2021 Permalink

Friday 28 May 2021.

Thursday 27 May 2021.
27 May 1977 - one of the greatest singles of all time was released 44 years ago today.
SEX PISTOLS " GOD SAVE THE QUEEN".
I bought it when it was first released, and like "Anarchy In The UK" , i played it non-stop.
See my Facebook page for a photo of my GSTQ vinyl collection.
I went to 117 gigs in 1977, many of these were at legendary venues that have gone forever.
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Happy Birthday to SIOUXSIE SIOUX who is 64 today.
I have seen her on stage around 25 times since Sept 1976 which was her debut stage appearance at
The 100 Club Punk Festival when Sid Vicious was on drums , and the second time i saw her was at the legendary punk venue, The Roxy Club in March 1977.
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Friday 28 May 2021....FRANKIE GOES TO HOLLYWOOD exhibition opens tonight, in Liverpoool.
The British Music Experience at the Cunard Building is set to host a brand new exhibition which will document the 1984 chart domination of Liverpool band Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
No band has ever dominated a year like Frankie Goes to Hollywood in 1984. Born out of Liverpool’s post-punk scene with a brash, mischievous, ‘do what you want’ attitude – Frankie were a one-off. With their first three singles all going to No.1 – a feat previously only achieved by fellow Liverpudlians, Gerry and the Pacemakers – they dominated the charts and the airwaves. They had a sound and image unlike anything else; part punk with rock and dance thrown in for good measure.
I was working front stage security for all their fantastic six shows at Hammersmith Odeon in 1985.
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Happy Birthday to KYLIE MINOGUE who is 53 today.
I have seen her a dozen times since Shepherds Bush Empire in 1998.
Some of her live shows have been incredible, and equal to the likes of Madonna.
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Happy Birthday to JOHN FOGERTY who is 76 today.
I don't recall him visiting the UK that much in the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s but I have seen him five times.
2000 - Tina Turner + John Fogerty at Wembley Stadium.
2006 - John Fogerty at Hammersmith Odeon.
2007 - John Fogerty at Wembley Arena.
2012 - Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band + John Fogerty at Hyde Park
2018 - John Fogerty + Steve Miller Band at The 02 Arena.
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The Royal Mail/ Post Office today issue 12 stamps featuring PAUL MCCARTNEY.
McCartney, who collaborated on the collection with the Royal Mail, is just the third solo artist to be so honoured. He follows David Bowie in 2017 and Elton John in 2019. Several groups have had official stamps from the Royal Mail including The Beatles, Queen and Pink Floyd.
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Saturday 29 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to NOEL GALLAGHER who is 54 today.
Check my Facebook page at noon to see a picture of Noel with myself.
I have seen Oasis and Noel solo live a few times each.
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Happy Birthday to FRANCIS ROSSI who is 72 today.
I have seen Status Quo over 40 times since 1974.
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Saturday 29 May - ED BYRNE live at The Forum.
Popular Irish comedian is on a UK tour, along with four support acts.
He had to stop his tour back in March 2020 due to the first covid lockdown.
This is a socially distanced show, with face coverings to be worn.
25% capacity maximum so 500 tickets allowed to be sold out of the usual 2000 capacity.
Upstairs is not sold out, so maybe 400 tickets sold tonight....chairs in the stalls.
You order drinks and food (nachos) via your smartphone , which is delivered to your seat.
Four good support acts performed for around 20 mins each - Sally Anne Hayward,
Funmbi Omatayo,Troy Hawke, Felicity Ward and ED BYRNE performed for around 30 mins.
Ed Byrne did an enjoyable set, he said he has been doing stand-up comedy for 27 years.
Good to see some comedy in these strange times.
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Sunday 30 May 2021.
SKY ARTS 9pm - KISS rocks Las Vegas 2014.
Hard to believe how very rare it is to see KISS on UK tv.
I have seen KISS over 30 times since 1976, they are still my fave ever American act.
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Bank Holiday Monday 31 May 2021.
The first record fair in the UK for 14 months is held in Reading.

Updated 28th May 2021 Permalink

Saturday 22 May 2021.

Saturday 22 May 2021.
THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST is live on BBC1 at 8pm.
The UK entry James Newman "Embers" is a good track, but nobody votes for us anymore.
Look out for a couple of decent rock tunes from Finland and Italy.
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Happy Birthday to MORRISSEY who is 62 today.
I never got around to seeing The Smiths live, but i have seen him solo several times.
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Happy Birthday to NAOMI CAMPBELL who is 51 today.
It was a surprise to hear that last week ,she became a mother.
Due to her age, rumours are she may not have conceived it herself.
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Sunday 23 May 2021.
The Monaco F1 Grand Prix is held....live on SKY tv and highlights on Channel 4 tv.
I attended this Grand Prix 12 years ago when i spent a fortnight in the South of France.
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Looks like members of THE SEX PISTOLS are heading to court.
Steve Jones and Paul Cook are to sue John Lydon as he refuses to agree to the
licensing of Sex Pistols music for the currently being filmed "Pistol" tv series.
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Monday 24 May 2021.
Music legend BOB DYLAN reaches the grand old age of 80 today.
I have seen him live around 30 times since two shows at Earls Court Arena in 1978.
Includes some nice stints watching him at Hammersmith Odeon when i worked on security.
In 1990 I saw all six shows there and in 1991 i saw all eight shows there.
I must admit i preferred his shows back then , to his current style of playing.
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Tuesday 25 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to PAUL WELLER who is 63 today.
His recent album "Fat Pop" went in at number one , last Friday.
I have seen Paul several times with The Jam and a few times with The Style Council and a few times solo.
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Happy Birthday to the oldest punk rocker in town - CHARLIE HARPER from The UK Subs is 77 today.
I have seen UK Subs around 10 times since 1978.
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Wednesday 26 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to STEVIE NICKS who is 73 today.
I have seen her a few times with Fleetwood Mac, and a rare solo show supporting Rod Stewart.

Updated 21st May 2021 Permalink

Wednesday 19 May 2021.

Wednesday 19 May 2021.
In the afternoon I had a nice little trip down memory lane.
I had five great years working in Nine Elms Lane 1993 to 1998.
It is the area situated from Vauxhall Cross to Battersea Power Station.
Situated by The River Thames, with Pimlico on the other side of the water.
It was a pretty gloomy area back then , with just some huge spaces taken over by The Royal Mail,
Securicor, HMSO, a nightclub, a couple of pubs and not much more.
Now there are at least FIFTY blocks of flats/offices here all along Nine Elms Lane.
There is even a Waitrose and trendy restaurants & bars.
There is an amazing see-through swimming pool, suspended ten floors up between two blocks.
See my Facebook page for a nice photo of it.
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7.30pm - THE MOUSETRAP re-opens at St Martin's Theatre, West Street, London WC2.
The world's longest running play re-opens in the West End with an all-star cast.
Performances now on-sale from 17 May 2021 – 30 January 2022.
The first four week's will be socially distanced, just 25% of full capacity allowed.
Facece coverings must be worn during the show.
The Mousetrap is a murder mystery play by Agatha Christie. The Mousetrap opened in London's West End in 1952 and ran continuously until 16 March 2020, when the stage performances had to be discontinued due to the COVID-19 pandemic.....it has sold over a staggering 10 million tickets....over 28,000 performances.
I have seen it a couple of times before.
Every other row has been left unsold and spare seats between all groups of ticket buyers.
Only eight in the cast , and no need for an orchestra so hopefully they can still make a small profit.
Two sets of around 60 mins each.
It was enjoyable to see it again.
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Thursday 20 May 2021.
KISS have finally confirmed the postponement of their 2021 European Tour to 2022.
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Happy Birthday to CHER who is 75 today.
Cher did not play live much in the UK so i only saw her the once.
It was at Wembley Arena, where we also went to the aftershow party.
We walked past Chers dressing room and the room next door said "Chers Wig Room".
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7.30pm - EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE, The Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1.
Everybody's Talking About Jamie will return to the Apollo Theatre in The West End , with Shane Richie reprising the role of Hugo/Loco Chanelle. ... Richie first played Hugo/Loco Chanelle from 28 January - 4 May 2019, but he's best known for playing Alfie Moon in BBC's Eastenders.
Jamie is a musical with music by Dan Gillespie Sells (The Feeling) and book and lyrics by Tom MacRae. The musical is inspired by the 2011 television documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 directed by Jenny Popplewe.There is a full length feature film due out in 2021.
The show features a twenty-five strong company and a nine-piece band that will ‘sweep you away on a tide of mischief, warmth and exuberance’ (Financial Times).
When it first premiered a couple of years ago it got five star reviews from The Times, The Financial Times,
The Independent, Time Out and Daily Express.
The first four week's will be socially distanced, and face coverings must be worn.
Tonight's show feels around 75% capacity, with just one empty seat between each booking.
The venue actually said they were selling shows at 50 % capacity.
The show is on for around 2 hours 25 mins over two sets of 85 mins and 60 mins.
I have a perfect view as I am just four rows from the stage.
Jamie is the 16 year school boy from Sheffield who overcomes hurdles to be a drag queen.
Plenty of great songs & dance routines and camp humour from the superb cast.
Great to see Shane Richie dress up in full drag.
It is an excellent , heartwarming and genuinely uplifting show , that is a perfect tonic
to help you get over those lockdown blues.
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Happy Birthday to tv presenter & comedian NOEL FIELDING who is 48 today.
I worked with Noel's dad in the 1990s so saw a couple of his very early shows.
One was at Riverside Studios and i surprised Noel at The Melbourne Comedy Festival.
Later on I would see him at Brixton Academy (The Mighty Boosh) and The Royal Albert Hall.
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Happy Birthday to LEO SAYER who 73 today.
I have seen him live several times since 1975 , he had a few hits in the 1970s.

Updated 20th May 2021 Permalink

Monday 17 May 2021.

Monday 17 May 2021.
The next stage of coming out of lockdown starts today, in the UK.
From 17 May Restaurants, bars and pubs can have customers inside.
From 17 May there are a few socially distanced gigs being held until 21 June.
From 17 May some theatres will be putting on socially distanced only shows until 21 June.
Many theatres will stay closed until at least 21 June as socially distanced shows are not viable.
From 17 May we can start going to the cinema again, so a good time to watch Oscar winning
films including "Nomadland" and "The Father".
Despite covid there are many brand new restaurants, bars and hotels due to open after 17 May.
Lets pray that this new Indian variant of the covid virus in the UK does not fuck things up.
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Today would have been the press / VIP day for The Chelsea Flower Show.
This year ,it has been postponed to September.
It is a always a great day out as it lasts from 10am to 10pm.
It is spilt into three parts...
Lunchtime session - celebrities turn up
Afternoon session - the area is pretty much cleared for The Royal Family members private view.
Evening session - party for around 1000 guests with champers etc flowing.
See my Facebook page for some photos i took of The Queen, Prince Harry and Ringo Starr,
from a few years ago.
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Tuesday 18 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to OLIVIA HARRISON who is 73 today . (wife of George Harrison) .
I will put a photo of her with me on my Facebook page Tuesday lunchtime.
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Happy Birthday to RICK WAKEMAN who is 72 today.
I have seen him on stage a couple of times.
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Happy Birthday to TOYAH WILLCOX who is 63 today.
She was a regular at Hammersmith Odeon when I worked their in her 1980s heyday
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18 May 1980 - Joy Division's IAN CURTIS committed suicide 41 years ago today.
I saw them a few times back in the day.
Joy Division,Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark,Certain Ratio Nashville Pub, London 13.08.1979
Joy Division,Distractions,Certain Ratio Electric Ballroom, London 26.10.1979
Buzzcocks,Joy Division Rainbow Theatre, London 10.11.1979 great double bill
Joy Division,Killing Joke,Certain Ratio Town Hall , High Wycombe 20.02.1980 well worth the drive up the A40/M40.
Joy Division,Killing Joke,Certain Ratio Lyceum Theatre, London 29.02.1980
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Looks like several tours are happening in America in the second part of the year.
This nice pairing have been confirmed for Sept and Oct - Alice Cooper with special guest Ace Frehley.
------------------
Wednesday 19 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to PETE TOWNSHEND who is 76 today.
I have seen The Who over 20 times since two shows at Hammersmith Odeon in Dec 1975.
Including two London shows in 2000 where Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros were the support band.
Including The Greek Theatre, Los Angeles in 2002, when i went over to see The Sex Pistols headlining a
huge festival which included over a dozen support acts including The Damned and The Buzzcocks.
I also attended one Petes rare headlining solo shows... The Rainbow in 1979.
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Happy Birthday to GRACE JONES who is 73 today.
I have seen her on stage a few times.

Updated 16th May 2021 Permalink

Friday 14 May 2021.

Friday 14 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to DAVID BYRNE who is 69 today.
I saw Talking Heads six times back in their heyday period - 1977 to 1980.
The 1980 show had some new band supporting called U2...whatever happened to them?
I have seen David Byrne with his band three times.
I did not get along to his tour a couple of years ago, which got some great reviews.
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Saturday 15 May 2021.
Surprise news that UK GQ Editor DYLAN JONES is to leave his post after 22 years.
The author and editor-in-chief of the UK Men’s Title published the August 2021 issue on Instagram on Friday. It will be his last with the publisher.
Jones will join The list of finished Condé Nast editors who have departed over the past six months.
The company has integrated its editorial team under global and regional leaders.
GQ has a great annual party, that attracts many A-list names - i have been to a couple of them.
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Another big name shopping brand on UK high streets bites the dust.
DEBENHAM'S has announced it will shut its remaining stores by 15 May, closing the door on more
than 200 years of trade on UK high streets.
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Live on BBC1 5pm - FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Leicester.
SKY ARTS 9pm - Paul Simon live in Central Park 1991.
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45 years ago today on 15 May 1976.
I saw KISS play their first concert in London at Hammersmith Odeon.
First night i was eight rows back, second night i was front row centre.
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Sunday 16 May 2021.
SKY ARTS 10.15pm - Lynryd Skynryd documentary.
I saw them live five times before their fatal plane crash in Oct 1977.
This included supporting The Rolling Stones at Knebworth in 1976.
I have seen them many times with the more recent line-ups.
Lead vocalist/founding member Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist and vocalist Steve Gaines, backing vocalist Cassie Gaines (Steve's older sister), assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, pilot Walter McCreary and co-pilot William Gray all died as a result of the crash while twenty others survived.
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Happy Birthday to JONATHAN RICHMAN who is 70 today.
I have seen him live at four UK shows including headlining Hammersmith Odeon in 1977.
I also saw him in 2003 in San Francisco , when i went over to USA for some Sex Pistols shows.
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40 years ago today on 16 May 1981 - JAPAN at Hammersmith Odeon.
This was my first night on front stage security at this legendary venue.
I would be working there for 11 years until 1992, when it became Hammersmith Apollo.
Some months i would be working over 20 evenings, as it was very popular with big name artists.

Updated 14th May 2021 Permalink

Monday 10 May 2021

Monday 10 May 2021.
SID VICIOUS would have been 64 today.
I saw him on stage in 1977 with The Sex Pistols and in 1978 with his own all-star band.
I had a chat with him at a Ramones gig at The Roundhouse in 1977.
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Happy Birthday to BONO who is 61 today.
I have seen U2 over 20 times since 1980 , when they were a support band to Talking Heads.
Including....
1985 - Live Aid at Wembley Stadium
1987 - Cardiff
2005 - Dublin
2009 - Cardiff
They have have always been a top notch live act.
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Three Brirish rock legends celebrate their 75th birthday on Monday....
Donovan (had his main success in the 1960s and 1970s) (I got one of his albums signed at a gig).
Dave Mason ( I saw him play Hammersmith Odeon twice in 1975 , when he split from Traffic)
Graham Gouldman ( he is still the only constant member of 10.cc.)
I saw 10cc a few times in their 70s heyday , including when they were the main support act
to The Rolling Stones when they played Knebworth in 1976.
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Tuesday 11 May 2021.
The BRIT AWARDS are held at The 02 Arena....to a smaller crowd due to covid restrictions.
Coldplay open the show, then it is pretty much aimed at the younger music fans and the current charts.
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Happy Birthday to singer-songwriter ERIC BURDON who is 80 today.
He is best known as the vocalist in The Animals.
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Wednesday 12 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to BILLY DUFFY from The Cult who is 60 today.
I have seen them live over a dozen times, including three times at Hammersmith Odeon on their 1987 tour.
In 2003 i went to America to see five Sex Pistols shows. Billy Duffy was at three of those shows.
Glen Matlock kindly arranged the guest list for all the shows for me.
I stayed at The Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas for a couple of days as Sex Pistols were playing there.
One afternoon i was in their open-air swimming pool , chatting to Billy Duffy and Glen Matlock.
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Happy Birthday to STEVE WINWOOD who is 74 today.
I have seen him a few times on stage.
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Thursday 13 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to STEVIE WONDER who is 71 today.
I have seen Stevie play live at Wembley Arena and Clapham Common.
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Happy Birthday to JOE BROWN who is 80 today.
Along with the likes of Cliff Richard, Joe is one of the original UK rock n rollers.
He is still touring, and has a UK tour planned for later this year.
I have seen him on stage a couple of times.

Updated 11th May 2021 Permalink

Friday 07 May 2021.

Friday 07 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to STEVE DIGGLE (The Buzzcocks guitarist) who is 66 today.
See my Facebook page to see a nice photo of Steve Diggle, Mick Jones and me from
2006 when The Buzzcocks picked up The Inspiration Award at The Mojo Music Awards.
..................
05 June 2006.MOJO Music Awards At Shoreditch Town Hall, London.
This was a quality event, full of proper musicians and some big names.
500 seated at tables and 50 upstairs in balcony.
6pm drinks reception in this lovely building that is over 100 years old then 7.15pm the following
were giving ,accepting or just hanging out David Gilmour, Jon Bon Jovi, Elton John, Tom Robinson,
Can, Corinne Bailey Rae, Buzzcocks, Mick Jones,Don Letts, Tony Wilson,Vic Reeves, Jeff Beck,
Brian May, Richard Hawley, James Dean Bradfield,
Nick Cave, Jools Holland, Roseanne Cash,Beth Orton,Roy Harper, Bert Jansch,Primal Scream,
Jesus And Mary Chain, Prince Buster , Joe Brown,
Phil Manzernera, Chrissie Hynde, Scott Walker and Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood.
Highlight for me was punk legends The Buzzcocks winning The Inspiration Award.
Then 9.15pm a lovely 2 couse dinner. I was on a table with Vic Reeves, Tony Wilson and Don
Letts. As normal half the musicians left the building after the awards and skipped dinner.
More lovely Appleton cocktails consumed.
11pm to 1am was the aftershow with dj in the room at the end of the building .A few hung around
but only Corinne Bailey Rae got on the floor for a boogie .A totally excellent evening....
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It was 10 years ago this week that AC/DC launched one of my fave in concert DVDs.
I have seen AC/DC many times with Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.
See my Facebook page for three photos from the event.
06 May 2011.
AC/DC World Premiere of their new dvd/blu-ray "Live At River Plate" at Hammersmith Apollo,London.
At around 7.30pm four of the five band members inc Brian Johnson and Angus Young arrive in cars for the red carpet that is between their famous cannons and giant bell.The band sign stuff and pose for photos.Just after 8pm we have a mumbling video intro from Ozzy Osbourne and dj Nicky Horne introduces the four band members who say a few words before taking their seats.The screen is huge as its takes up all the stage space and there are extra speakers all around the venue.Each song is given a big cheer.Its like a proper gig really as there is even band merch on sale.The crowd scenes are incredible as South American crowds really are the best.Its a fantastic must buy item.Shot in December of 2009, AC/DC Live At River Plate marks AC/DC’s triumphant return to Buenos Aires where nearly 200,000 fans, and 3 sold-out shows, welcomed the band back after a 13 year absence from Argentina.
There was a big afterparty in the circle bar for over 200 guests. AC/DC did not turn up but all
The Stereophonics are here and Kelly Jones says to me "Does this count as another gig then , Ray?".
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SKY ARTS 9pm - SUEDE documentary on their 1996 debut album " Coming Up".
SKY ARTS 11pm - SUEDE live at The Royal Albert Hall March 2010.
I did not go to this show, but I did go to their warm up gig at The 100 Club a couple of days before.
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Saturday 08 May 2021.
Van Halen drummer ALEX VAN HALEN is 68 today.
GARY GLITTER is 77 today...
He had so many great glam rock tunes in the 1970s and i saw him live several times
before his disgusting behaviour later.
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SKY ARTS 9pm - Ronnie Wood documentary from 2020 "Somebody Up There Likes Me " .
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Sunday 09 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to BILLY JOEL who is 72 today...
I have seen Billy Joel four times in concert
2006 - two shows at Wembley Arena
2016 - Wembley Stadium
2019 - Wembley Stadium
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Happy Birthday to DAVE GAHAN who is 59 today.
I have seen Depeche Mode over a dozen times since 1981.
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SKY ARTS 11.15pm - NICK MASON'S SAUCERFUL OF SECRETS live at The Roundhouse 2019.
The DVD of this show was released in 2020.
I was at both these Roundhouse shows.

Updated 7th May 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 04 May 2021.

Tuesday 04 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to ZAL CLEMINSON (SAHB guitarist) who is 72 today.
I saw Zal with Sensational Alex Harvey Band a few times in the 1970s,
and a few times later without Alex as he passed away in 1982, aged only 46.
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Happy Birthday to MICK MARS (Motley Crue guitarist ) who is 70 today.
I have seen Motley Crue live around a dozen times since 1984.
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Wednesday 05 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to ADELE who is 33 today.
In July 2008 I saw Adele play a tiny club show at the 250 capacity Bush Hall for Capital Radio.
In 2008 Adele and Duffy were the hottest new female acts coming through, with their debut albums.
-----------
Sad news that NICK KAMEN has passed away at the age of 59, a friend of his family
has confirmed to the BBC.
The Essex-born star was known for appearing in a 1985 Levi's advert filmed in a launderette.
His music career peaked the next year with a top five hit Each Time You Break My Heart, co-written by Madonna.
His friend and fellow singer Boy George led the tributes on Wednesday, describing Kamen as "the most beautiful and sweetest man".
-------------------
Thursday 06 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to actor GEORGE CLOONEY who is 60 today.
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AUGUST DARNELL is the latest songwriter to cash in on his back catalogue - selling hits including Annie I'm Not Your Daddy to music publisher One Media iP Group.
The singer has sold the writers' royalties of 1980s' band Kid Creole and the Coconuts, saying he wants to "look after his Coconuts way into the future".
The musician, born August Darnell in New York in 1950, enjoyed a string of hits in the early 1980s, which included Stool Pigeon and I'm A Wonderful Thing, Baby and in 1983 won a Brit Award for best international artist.
Kid Creole & The Coconuts were such a great live band back in their 1980s heyday.
Over a dozen of them on stage , including three man brass section, percussion and the three Coconuts.
I have seen them over a dozen times including....
four shows in 1982 ( one at The Lyceum and three at Hammersmith Odeon)
six shows in 1983 (all at Hammersmith Odeon as they played two UK tours that year )

Updated 4th May 2021 Permalink

Tuesday 27 April 2021.

Tuesday 27 April 2021.
Happy Birthday to original KISS guitarist ACE FREHLEY who is 70 today.
I have seen all the various KISS line-ups.
These are the KISS shows i have seen with Ace.
1976 - both shows at Hammersmith Odeon.
1979 - KISS + Judas Priest in Chicago, USA.
1980 - all four UK arena shows.
Ace departed KISS for a bit , then they reformed with the original line-up and put the costumes back on.
1996 - all four UK shows
1997 - two shows - Ghent, Belgium and Finsbury Park.
1999 - two shows - Paris, France and Wembley Arena.
I also saw three shows by Ace Frehleys Comet.
1988 - Hammersmith Odeon.
2008 - Astoria.
2009 - Shepherds Bush Empire.
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Happy Birthday to Adam Ant original guitarist MARCO PERONI who is 62 today.
I first saw him with Adam Ant in 1979 , when they were a support band at The Electric Ballroom.
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Wednesday 28 April 2021.
YouTube - Watch PRINCE stunning guitar solo in a new directors cut of his Rock & Roll
Hall of Fame appearance with the all-star band in 2004.
Filmed at New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, on March 15 of that year, an all-star lineup took to the stage to perform Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” Among those onstage were Tom Petty, Steve Winwood, Jeff Lynne and Dhani Harrison, who uncannily resembles his father.
-------------------
Thursday 29 April 2021.
Happy Birthday to Country Music legend WILLIE NELSON who reaches the grand age of 88 today.
I have seen him on stage three times....
1982 - Hammersmith Odeon
2000 - supporting David Bowie at Glastonbury Festival.
2008 - Hammersmith Apollo.
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Friday 30 April 2021.
SIR TOM JONES is all over the tv and radio and media this week promoting his new album.
Sir Tom Jones is on course for his first UK Number 1 album in two decades with Surrounded By Time.
Friday afternoon update - Tom’s new studio album went straight in at number one.
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Saturday 01 May 2021.
SKY ARTS 5pm - Marc Bolan documentary.
SKY ARTS 6pm - Kurt Cobain documentary.
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Sunday 02 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to my youngest son ,who is 31 today - where have all the years gone?
Happy Birthday to JIMMY WHITE who is 59 today.
Happy Birthday to DAVID BECKHAM who is 46 today.
Check my Facebook page Sunday lunchtime for three photos related to the above birthdays.
Along with my reviews of the event where the photos were taken.
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BBC1 9pm - the final episode of Line of Duty...must see tv.
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Monday 03 May 2021.
Happy Birthday to FRANKIE VALLI who is 87 today.
He is still touring, and due to play The Royal Albert Hall in 2022.
I have seen him twice at The Royal Albert Hall, with the first time in 1980.
I also attended the opening press night and party for The Jersey Boys musical.
18 Mar 2008.The Jersey Boys - The Story Of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons at The
Prince Edward Theatre,London.It must have cost a fortune and it put band
gig aftershows to shame.They have laid on a convoy of coaches to take us to the splender of
The Natural History Museum where some 1000 press,vips,cast members and their guests get stuck into the free booze and food from 11pm to 2am.
Faces here inc Frankie Valli,Brian May,Anita Dodson,Barbara Windsor,Cilla Black,Lionel Blair,
Christopher Biggins,Vanessa Felz,Carole Malone and a few more.There was a 12 piece jazz band
playing the classics with the dinosaur bones hanging over our heads......Excellent bash......

Updated 26th April 2021 Permalink