From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Friday 31st October):
Birth
1965. Annabel Lwin (Bow Wow Wow) born Myant Myant Aye in Rangoon, Burma.
In Custody
1964. Ray Charles is arrested by U.S. Customs officials when he arrives at Boston Airport from Canada. He’s charged with possession of a quantity of marijuana, heroin and a hypodermic syringe.
In Court
1967. Brian Jones is granted bail after an application to the High Court in London. Mr. Justice Donaldson hears evidence in his private chambers from two psychiatrists. He releases Jones on his own recognisance of £ 250 and two sureties of £ 250 each.
In Hospital
1999. Johnny Cash leaves Nashville’s Baptist Hospital after two weeks treatment for pneumonia. It’s the 67 year old Country legend’s third bout of the illness in the last two years. He suffers from Shy-Drager Syndrome, a Parkinson’s Disease like ailment, which makes him more susceptible to pneumonia.
On Television
1983. Rockpalast (WDR, Germany) Public Image Ltd. (Zeche Bochum). Here they are with “Public Image”
Death
2001. Jazz pianist, Bill Le Sage (William A. Le Sage) dies in London from lung cancer aged 72. He played with a wide variety of people over the years from The John Dankworth Seven to Charlie Watts’s Big Band.
Babble
Back to normal today. Yesterday’s blog was a bit crazy. I know it was there before but the tag cloud I created was insanely big. I was adding tags late into the night and my brain gave up. Took me another half hour this morning to get the rest of them online. Never again!
I’d like to reiterate that I’d welcome comments. Real feedback, telling me what you think of the almanac sample. Not just what, if anything I should add (or remove) but how useful you feel it is, how accessible, whether the layout works and if the format’s ok.
There are obviously media professionals who browse the blog, so I’d appreciate a candid view. If you don’t want your comments published, just say. That goes for everyone. I do want to hear from you but realise you might not want your comments made public for whatever reason. Don’t let that stop you. You can always mail me: info@rockmine.com.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Thursday 30th October):
Birth
1943. Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane/Jefferson Starship) born Grace Wing in Chicago, Illinois.
On Tour
1963. The Beatles, who’re still in Sweden following their tour there, tape a performance for the Swedish TV show, “Drop-In” at Narren-Teatern, Grona Lund, Stockholm. The show is taped in front of a live audience and although scheduled to perform only two songs, The Beatles end up doing four. Here’s their complete performance. It seems very intimate with the audience literally inches away from them and the boys are obviously enjoying themselves.
In Custody
1990. Axl Rose is arrested on a charge of assaulting his neighbour Gabriela Kantor with a bottle after she called police to complain about noise from his apartment. He’s released later in the day on bail of $ 5,000.
In Court
1969. In court:
Peter Hallett, 31, appears at Esher and Walton Court charged with stealing £ 1,400 from Engelbert Humperdinck, a £ 400 wrist watch from Mrs. Jessie Mills, wife of the singer’s manager and £ 500 from Mr. Gordon Jones, an assistant to Mr. Mills. Hallett is remanded on bail of £ 1,000 for seven days.
On Television
1965. Shindig! (ABC, U.S.A.) Hosted by Boris Karloff. Opening medley: Billy Preston, Bobby Sherman, The Wellingtons, Jackie and Gayle, Ted Cassidy (as Lurch), the Blossoms and the Spokesmen, Jim Doval and the Gauchos; Jackie and Gayle; Bobby Sherman; The Spokesmen; Boris Karloff recites; The Wellingtons; The Gauchos with Billy Preston; Bobby Sherman (finale)
Death
2007. Linda Stein, socialite, real estate agent to the stars and one-time manager of The Ramones, is found murdered in her Fifth Avenue apartment. She became an influential figure in the U.S. punk movement during the time she was married to Seymour Stein, owner of Sire Records. After the couple divorced, she turned to real estate finding properties for Billy Joel, Sting, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jann Wenner and Damon Dash amongst others.
Babble
Today’s blog has been a tricky one. What do I do with it? After all, anyone who has clicked on The Rockmine Almanac tab at the top of the front page will have seen today’s entry already. That said, one of the problems with that page is that it doesn’t carry tags and so a lot of people who search the blogosphere using them, miss out on it.
So, I’ll ask you to pander to me, yet again while I put out the complete version of The Rockmine Almanac’s listing for today. A standard blog entry for today is included above but if you’ve got time, check out the full version and let me know what you think. Is it complete enough? What am I missing out? As you know, I can include music paper front pages and was intending expanding this with a “Front Page News” as there are way to many great front pages, especially in the U.K. tabloid press.
Seriously, I’d appreciate comments and suggestions for other elements I can include. Anyway, here it is:
The Rockmine Almanac for October 30th.
1939. Songwriter Eddie Holland (Holland-Dozier-Holland) born in Detroit.
1943. Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane/Starship) born Grace Wing in Chicago, Illinois.
1947. Timothy B. Schmidt (Poco/Eagles) born in Sacramento, California.
1951. Mrs. Nancy Sinatra is granted an interlocutory decree of divorce from husband, Frank Sinatra.
1952. Guitarist Arlen Roth born in New York City. Despite being a tour and session guitarist (Simon & Garfunkel, Phoebe Snow) and releasing several solo albums, Roth is best known as the founder of Hot Licks, the makers of guitar tuition videos.
1954. Actor/country singer T. Graham Brown (Bailie And The Boys) born in Morristown, New Jersey.
1954. On Stage:
The Eagle’s Nest, Memphis, Tennessee: Elvis Presley.
1955. On television:
The Ed Sullivan Show (CBS, U.S.A.) including Liberace and David Whitfield, who sings “Never Stop Loving You”.
1958. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) with musical guest, Kathy Linden.
1960. Byron Burke (Ten City) born.
1960. Elvis Presley is at RCA’s Studio B, in Nashville working on tracks for the “His Hand In Mine” gospel album. Recording starts at 6.30 pm and finishes at 8 am the following day. A total of 12 album tracks and 2 single A-sides (“Surrender” and “Crying In The Chapel”) are cut.
1960. Award: Henry Mancini‘s album, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is the only one to be certified “Gold” by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America) this month.
1960. On stage:
Kaiserkeller Club, Grosse Freiheit, Hamburg, West Germany: The Beatles.
1960. On television:
The Ed Sullivan Show (CBS, U.S.A.) including Lou Rawls performing “Love Is A Hurtin’ Thing” and ” In The Evenin'”; Nancy Ames performing “Be Ready” and “Time After Time”.
1961. On stage: The Beatles play a lunch-time show at Liverpool’s Cavern Club.
1962. After three weeks promoting their single, “Love Me Do” in London and the North-West of England, The Beatles fly to Hamburg. They’ll start at two week engagement tomorrow at the Star Club, sharing the bill with Little Richard.
1963. Jerry De Borg (Jesus Jones) born in Kentish Town, London.
1963. The Beatles, who’re still in Sweden following their tour there, tape a performance for the Swedish TV show, “Drop-In” at Narren-Teatern, Grona Lund, Stockholm. The show is taped in front of a live audience and although scheduled to perform only two songs, The Beatles end up doing four.
1964. New release: Alma Cogan‘s new single, “It’s You” is released in the U.K. The b-side, “I Knew Right Away” features Paul McCartney playing tambourine.
1964. Award:
The single, “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison is certified “Gold” by the R.I.A.A.
1964. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Yardbirds.
Gaumont Cinema, Bournemouth: The Beatles play two shows as part of their current U.K. tour.
1964. On television:
The Jack Paar Program (NBC, U.S.A.). Jack shows excerpts from Julius Monk’s Plaza 9 revue, “Bits and Pieces”.
1965. On stage:
Manchester University: The Who.
1965. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) 1694. Annual Halloween Party: The Mojo Men – “Dance with Me” and “Loneliest Guy in Town”; Barry Young – “One Has My Name”.
Beat Club (West Germany) featuring The Phantoms, Ian & The Zodiacs, The (German) Blue Flames and The Rolling Stones.
Shindig (ABC, U.S.A.) Hosted by Boris Karloff. Opening medley: Billy Preston – instrumental, Bobby Sherman – “Help”, Bobby Sherman with The Wellingtons – “I’m Down”, Jackie and Gayle, Ted Cassidy (as Lurch), The Blossoms, and The Spokesmen – “Get on the Right Track Bobby”; Commercial: Stri-Dex acne medication with Jimmy O’Neill; Jimmy O’Neill talks with guest host Boris Karloff; Jim Doval and the Gauchos – “Tell Me What You’re Gonna Do”; Jackie and Gayle – “Everyone’s Gone to the Moon”; Bobby Sherman – “Memphis”; The Spokesmen – “There But For Fortune”; Commercials: Arrid Deodorant & Almond Joy; Boris Karloff recites (then almost sings) the lyrics for “The Peppermint Twist”; The Wellingtons – “Some Enchanted Evening”; The Gauchos with Billy Preston – “Bony Moronie”; Jimmy O’Neill talks with Boris Karloff and Ted Cassidy. Cassidy appears without Lurch makeup; Boris Karloff announces next week’s guests; Bobby Sherman – “You Can’t Sit Down” (finale, closing credits)
“Missing” songs (possibly song excerpts, part of a medley): Boris Karloff – “Monster Mash”; Ted Cassidy – “The Addams Family” & “The Lurch”; Jim Doval and the Gauchos – “Out of Sight”; Jim Doval – “Bella’s Bash”; The Gauchos & Billy Preston – “Bony Moronie”; The Wellingtons – “Scully Gully”
1966. On Stage:
Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco – Captain Beefheart, The Chocolate Watch Band and The Great Pumpkin
1966. The Who play the Sportspalast in Berlin, West Germany. After the show, Keith Moon spots some girls to chat-up. He’s doing fine, until their boyfriends find them. Needless to say, he does the chivalrous thing and asks manager Chris Stamp and road manager Neville Chester to calm things down, before running off. Chris and Neville don’t succeed and are both beaten up.
1966. On television:
Ed Sullivan Show (U.S.A.). Musical guests: James Brown and Nancy Sinatra.
1967. The Jimi Hendrix Experience is at Olympic Studios in London, working on the “Axis: Bold As Love” album. Noel Redding is adding some finishing touches to his track, “She’s So Fine” with Jimi Hendrix and Mitch Mitchell adding backing vocals. It’s likely that a number of other tracks will have had the same treatment as mixing the album begins tomorrow.
1967. Brian Jones is sentenced to nine months in prison at Inner London Sessions after pleading guilty to possession of cannabis at his flat. He is also ordered to pay £ 250 costs. Chairman of the magistrates, Mr. R.E. Smeaton, refused bail pending an appeal. Despite evidence given by psychiatrist, Dr Leonard Henry that Jones suffered a mental break-down after his arrest and is likely to injure himself if imprisoned, the guitarist is taken to Wormwood Scrubbs Prison.
1967. Paul McCartney and cameraman Aubrey Dewar film the dawn in the mountains around Nice in France. They had flown there from London yesterday with Mal Evans to gather some extra footage for “Magical Mystery Tour”.
1967. Robert Stigwood announces that he is to resign from his post as joint managing director of N.E.M.S. Enterprises Ltd. to create a new international entertainment company – The Robert Stigwood Organisation. A spokesman said the resignation will have no detrimental effect on The Beatles. Stigwood’s decision comes after the death of Brian Epstein. He said many of the things he had agreed with Epstein for the future were ‘not now practically possible” and he was leaving “on the most amicable basis”.
1967. On television: The Monkees (U.S.A.) with a show entitled, “Monkees Marooned”, in which Peter Tork trades his guitar for a treasure map of Blackbeard’s long lost booty. Pink Floyd appear on “The Pat Boone Show” whilst on their first U.S. tour. Pat interviews the band but Syd Barrett doesn’t respond when questioned.
Later, Pink Floyd play a benefit for radio station, KPFA, at The Fillmore. Also taking part are Sopwith Camel.
Three Of A Kind (BBC-2, U.K.) Co-starring Lulu.
1968. The MC-5‘s gigs tonight and tomorrow at the Grande Ballroom in Detroit are recorded by Elektra for a live album. The performances of “Kick Out The Jams” and “Motor City Is Burning” are filmed on Super 8 by Leni Sinclair. The film will later surface at the Ann Arbor Film Festival in January, 1970.
1968. New release:
(U.S.) Jimi Hendrix‘s new single, “Crosstown Traffic”.
1968. On stage:
Eel Pie Island: The Who, East Of Eden, Proteus and David Booth.
Royal Albert Hall: Tiny Tim and Joe Cocker.
Kleinhan’s Music Hall, Buffalo, New York: Led Zeppelin.
1968. On television:
Little Big Time (U.K.) The first show of Freddie Garrity‘s new series (Southern-TV only).
The Johnathan Winters Show (CBS, U.S.A.) 23. Guests include The Craig Hundley Trio.
1969. In court:
Peter Hallett, 31, appears at Esher and Walton Court charged with stealing £ 1,400 from Engelbert Humperdinck, a £ 400 wrist watch from Mrs. Jessie Mills, wife of the singer’s manager and £ 500 from Mr. Gordon Jones, an assistant to Mr. Mills. Hallett is remanded on bail of £ 1,000 for seven days.
1969. The Rolling Stones are recording at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles.
1969. On stage:
Matrix Club, San Francisco: The Velvet Underground.
1969. On television:
Top Of The Pops, (U.K.) including studio performances by Clodagh Rodgers, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Cliff and Joe Dolan, along with film/video of Joe Cocker and Frank Sinatra.
1970. Michelle Phillips (The Mamas and the Papas), marries actor Dennis Hopper but their wedded bliss only lasts 8 days before they split up.
1970. The Rolling Stones sessions for their next album, “Sticky Fingers”, continue at Olympic Studios in London.
1970. New releases: The Beach Boys‘ new single, “Tears In The Morning”. The Equals‘ new single, “Black-Skinned Blue-Eyed Boy”. Highest U.K. chart position: 9.
Free’s new single “Stealer”. McGuinness Flint‘s debut single, “When I’m Dead And Gone”. Highest U.K. chart position: 2. The Nice‘s new single, “Country Pie”. Quintessence‘s new single, “Dive Deep”. Status Quo‘s new single, “In My Chair”. Stevie Wonder‘s new single, “Heaven Help Us All”. Neil Young‘s new single, “Only Love Can Break Your Heart”. Chairmen Of The Board‘s new eponymous album. Merry Clayton‘s new album, “Gimme Shelter”. The Hollies‘ new album, “Confessions Of My Mind”. Elton John‘s new album, “Tumbleweed Connection”. Highest U.K. chart position: 6. Freda Payne‘s new album “Band Of Gold”. Martha Reeves And The Vandellas‘s new album, “Natural Resources”. Cliff Richard‘s new album, “Tracks ‘n’ Grooves”. Jr. Walker And The All Stars‘ new album, “A Gas”.
1970. Award: Bobby Sherman‘s album, “With Love, Bobby” is certified “Gold” by the R.I.A.A.
1970. On stage:
Albanay State University Gymnasium, Albany, New York: Derek And The Dominoes.
1970. On television:
The Mike Douglas Show (U.S.A.) with musical guests Joe Harnell Sextet and The O’Jays. The Partridge Family (ABC, U.S.A.) with an episode entitled, “Love At First Slight”.
1971. John Lennon‘s album, “Imagine” reaches number one in the US Top 40.
1971. On stage:
Liverpool University, Liverpool: The Velvet Undergound.
1971. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) Among the performances is Freda Payne – “You Brought the Joy”.
Beat Club (WDR, West Germany) 72: Champion Jack Dupree, Stoneground, T.Rex, Richie Havens, Passport, Alice Cooper, Procol Harum, Jethro Tull, Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan (on film).
Hee-Haw (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 58. Lynn Anderson – “Rose Garden”, “You’re My Man”; Roy Sanders – “I’m Gonna Walk All Over Georgia”; Buck Owens – “Mountain Dew”; Roy Clark – “My Goal for Today”.
Soul Train (U.S.A.) including Bill Withers, Al Green and Viola Wills.
1972. Elton John‘s appearance at tonight’s Royal Variety Show caused the re-arranging of several dates on his current U.S. tour, along with the cancellation of his Phoenix shows. In his own words it probably cost him £ 15,000. Arriving for sound-checks at 9.30 am, Elton found a small crowd of twenty or thirty people waiting. As he got out of his car, one stepped forward and said, “Michael, can I have your autograph?” Still suffering from jet-lag, Elton took several moments to realise the fan really thought he was Michael Jackson! The Jackson 5 won’t be so easy to approach as they’ve hired an armoured truck to ferry them to gigs during their U.K. tour. As for Elton, he’ll fly back to the States tomorrow to continue his tour.
1972. After an 18 month investigation, the results of police enquiries, into allegations that DJs and production staff at the B.B.C. accepted bribes from record company pluggers, has been sent to the Director Of Public Prosecutions.
1972. Awards: The Spinners‘s single, “I’ll Be Around” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America). Highest chart position: 5. Yes‘s album, “Close To The Edge” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. highest chart position: 4.
1972. On stage:
Marquee Club: Colin Blunstone.
London Palladium: The Royal Variety Show with The Jackson 5, Elton John and Jack Jones.
Edinburgh Caley Theatre: Ten Years After.
1972. On television:
‘Sacha’s In Town’ (U.K.) Hosted by Sacha Distel with musical guests Dawn, Mirielle Mathieu and Labi Siffre.
1973. Pink Floyd continue their recording sessions for the “Household Objects” album.
1973. Award:
The album, “Jonathan Livingstone Seagull” by Neil Diamond is certified “Gold” by the R.I.A.A. Highest chart position: 3.
1973. On television:
The Mike Douglas Show (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 2562. Guests include singing group Creative Source.
The Old Grey Whistle Test (BBC-2, U.K.) with a session by Kevin Coyne.
1973. On the radio:
Tonight’s “John Peel Show” on Radio One includes a four song session by Michael Chapman. It was recorded at the BBC’s Langham studios on October 16th.
1974. Gong‘s drummer, Laurie Allan, is arrested for possessing drugs as he crosses from Germany into France. His resulting ban fromm France will cause him problems for many years to come.
1974. Awards: America‘s album, “Holiday” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. Highest chart position: 5. Neil Diamond‘s album, “Serenade” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. Highest chart position: 4.
1975. Bob Dylan opens his Rolling Thunder Review tour at the War Memorial Auditorium in Plymouth, Massachusetts
1975. Award: Elton John‘s album “Rock Of The Westies” is certified gold by the BPI. It was released on October 24th. Highest chart position: 5.
1975. On television:
Top Of The Pops (BBC-1, U.K.) Presented by Ed Stewart. Includes studio performances by George McCrae and Maxine Nightingale, along with videos of David Bowie, Deb Clarke, Art Garfunkel and Esther Phillips. There are also repeat (video performances) by Abba, Morris Albert, Justin Hayward & John Lodge and Hello. Pan’s People dance to The Chequers‘ “Rock On Brother”.
1976. Elvis Presley has a recording session in The Jungle Room at Graceland. Recording starts at 9 pm, with three three-hour sessions, finishing at 8 am the following day. One album track (“He’ll Have To Go”) is cut.
1976. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) 2248. Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr. – “You Don’t Have to Be a Star, Baby”; Flash Cadillac and the Continental Kids – “Did You Boogie?”
Hee-Haw (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 188. C.W. McCall – “Convoy”, “Crispy Critters”; Crystal Gayle – “Somebody Loves You”; Brush Arbor (band) – “Long as You Still Love Me”; Buck Owens and the Buckaroos – “Act Naturally”; Roy Clark – “Have I Stayed Away Too Long?”; The Hagers – “Movin’ On”.
Saturday Night Live (U.S.A.) with musical guests The Band.
Soul Train (U.S.A.) including The Undisputed Truth, Impact and Carl Douglas.
1977. The Rolling Stones sessions for their next album, “Some Girls”, continue at Pathe Marconi EMI’s studios in Paris.
1977. On stage:
Marquee Club: Grand Hotel and Smiler.
Rainbow Theatre: Roy Harper & Black Sheep.
Roundhouse: Dave Edmunds’ Rockpile, The Motors and Flying Aces.
Edinburgh Usher Hall: Alan Stivell.
Glasgow Apollo: The Jam and The Piranhas.
Manchester Apollo: Smokie.
1978. Awards: Village People‘s single, “Macho Man” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. Ted Nugent‘s album, “Weekend Warriors” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. The Marshall Tucker Band‘s album, “Greatest Hits” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A.
1978. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Smirks.
Hammersmith Odeon: Steve Hackett.
Wembley Arena: Santana.
Manchester Apollo: Budgie.
1978. On television:
Disco (ZDF, West Germany) 95. Luv’ – You’re the greatest lover; Wolfgang Petry – Gianna (Liebe im Auto); Tom Paxton – The last thing on my mind; Rosetta Stone – Sheila; Luisa Fernandez – Give love a second chance; Gebrüder Blattschuß – Kreuzberger Nächte; Bino – Mama Leone; Boney M – Rasputin
1978. On the radio:
Tonight’s “John Peel Show” on Radio One includes a four song session by Angelic Upstarts, recorded at the BBC’s Maida Vale studios on October 24th and a four track session by Elvis Costello And The Attractions, recorded at the same studios on October 23rd.
1979. New release: Pink Floyd‘s album, “The Wall”.
1979. Awards: Stevie Wonder‘s album “Journey Through The Secret Life Of Plants” is certified gold by the BPI. It was released today and qualified for its award on pre-sales alone. Highest chart position: 8. L.T.D.‘s album, “Devotion” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A
1979. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Piranhas.
Wembley Stadium: Supertramp.
1979. On television:
The Old Grey Whistle Test (U.K.) with sessions by Landscape and Bruce Wooley & The Camera Club.
1980. Award: Pat Benatar‘s album, “Crimes Of Passion” is certified platinum by the R.I.A.A
1980. The Rolling Stones are still recording at Pathe Marconi EMI’s studios in Paris, working on their next album, “Tattoo You”.
1980. The Specials open a series of charity gigs at Islington’s Hope And Anchor tonight. Called “Blanket Coverage” the gigs will pay for blankets and duvets to combat hypothermia amongst the elderly in the borough. It’s also hoped that some funds will be available to help with paying heating bills. Distribution and organisation is being arranged by the local Home Help department. Eleven other bands will be playing during the fourteen nights. They are The Skids, The Only Ones, Pauline Murray and John Cooper Clark, The Damned, Sector 27, Madness, Bad Manners, The Revillos,The Rumour, Selector and Ian Dury And The Blockheads.
1980. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Revillos.
100 Club: Pressure Shock (lunchtime); Local Heroes (evening).
Hammersmith Odeon: Ry Cooder.
Edinburgh Usher Hall: Elkie Brooks.
Glasgow Apollo: The Jam and The Piranhas.
Manchester Apollo: Captain Beefheart and Comsat Angels.
1980. On television:
Rockpalast (West Germany) featuring Magazine and The Schroeder Roadshow live at the Metropol, Berlin.
Top Of The Pops (U.K.) presented by Peter Powell and Colin Berry. Includes a studio performance by Adam & The Ants, along with videos of Sheana Easton, Olivia Newton-John, Odyssey and Barbra Streisand. There are also repeat (video) performances by Bad Manners and Showaddywaddy. Pan’s People dance to David Bowie‘s “Fashion”.
1980. Awards: Roxy Music‘s album “Flesh And Blood” is certified platinum by the BPI. It was released in May this year. Highest chart position: 1. The Shadows‘ album “Change Of Address” is certified silver by the BPI. It was released on August 1st this year. Highest chart position: 17.
1981. Gary Numan is stuck in Frobisher Bay, on Baffin Island, only 200 miles from the Arctic Circle, with an oil leak on his Piper Navaho aircraft. This is the second time one of his round the world flights has run into problems. His mother, Mrs. Beryl Webb, announced today that two engineers had examined the plane and were awaiting the arrival of a third. If a new engine was needed, then one was ready and waiting. Meanwhile, a spokesman for one of Numan’s companies said the pop star’s father, Mr. Tony Webb, had arrived in Toronto to help arrange the repairs. Numan and his aircraft are some 1500 miles from there. It’s hoped that if the repairs can be carried out, then the flight will re-commence on Wednesday, November 4th.
1981. New releases: George Benson‘s new single, “Turn Your Love Around”. Highest U.K. chart position: 29. John Foxx‘s new single, “Dancing Like A Gun”. The Kinks‘ new single, “Predictable”.
Ultravox’s new single, “The Voice”. Highest U.K. chart position: 16.
1981. Awards: OMD‘s album “Architecture & Morality” is certified gold by the BPI. Highest chart position: 3.
1981. The Rolling Stones‘ album, “Tattoo You” is certified platinum by the R.I.A.A
1981. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Byron Band.
Hammersmith Odeon: Greg Lake Band and Voyager.
Glasgow Shawlands Academy: H2O.
Liverpool Royal Court Theatre: Bad Manners.
1981. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) American Bandstand’s 30th Anniversary Special. Kim Carnes – “Bette Davis Eyes”; Stevie Wonder – “Master Blaster”; The Beach Boys – medley of hits (“Good Vibrations”, “Help Me Rhonda”, “I Get Around,” etc.); Rod Stewart – “Young Turks” (performance videotaped on rooftop); Teddy Pendergrass – “Greatest Inspiration”; The Oak Ridge Boys – “Elvira”; Connie Francis – medley of hits (“Among My Souvenirs,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” “Who’s Sorry Now” and “Where the Boys Are”); Barry Manilow – “The Old Songs”; Earth, Wind, and Fire – “Let’s Groove”; Frankie Laine – medley of hits including “Jezebel,” “High Noon”(“Do Not Forsake Me”), “Mule Train,” “I Believe”; The Righteous Brothers – “Rock and Roll Heaven” (Updated version of 1974 song); Finale: All-Star Supergroup performs “Rock Around the Clock”
1982. The Jam announce they have broken up.
1982. Mari Wilson insures her bee-hive hair-do for £ 100,000.
1982. On stage:
Marquee Club: Glitter Band.
Dundee Caird Hall: Duran Duran and The Church.
Glasgow Apollo: Diamond Head.
Manchester Apollo: Chris De Burgh and Dean Friedman.
1982. On television:
American Bandstand (ABC, U.S.A.) 2524. Janet Jackson “Young Love” and “Come Give Your Love To Me”; Laura Branigan – “Gloria”. Both listed artists are making their television debuts.
Saturday Night Live (U.S.A.) with musical guests The New Joe Jackson Band.
Soul Train (U.S.A.) including A salute to Lionel Richie, Ozone and Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens.
1983. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Sinatras.
Hammersmith Odeon: Paul Young & The Royal Family.
Edinburgh Playhouse: Michael Schenker Group and Wildlife.
Manchester Jilly’s: Toy Dolls.
1983. On television:
Rockpalast (West Germany) featuring Telephone live at Zeche, Bochum.
1984. Awards: AC/DC‘s albums, “For Those About To Rock (We Salute You)”, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” and “Highway To Hell” are all certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Their album, “Back In Black” also gets a certification for 5 X platinum. The Blues Brothers‘ album, “Briefcase Full Of Blues” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. The Cars‘ album, “Heartbeat City” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Foreigner‘s album, “Head Games” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. while their albums, “4” and “Double Vision” both get 5 X platinum. The Jacksons‘ album, “Victory” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Michael Jackson‘s album, “Thriller” is certified 20 X platinum by the R.I.A.A.! Led Zeppelin‘s album, “The Song Remains The Same” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A while their album “In Through The Out Door” gets 3 X platinum. Stevie Nicks‘ album, “Bella Donna” is certified 3 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. The Rolling Stones‘ album, “Tattoo You” is certified 3 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Linda Ronstadt‘s album, “What’s New” is certified 2 X platinum by the R.I.A.A.
1984. On stage:
Marquee Club: Immaculate Fools.
100 Club: Broken Bones and The Accursed.
Wembley Conference Centre: Roberta Flack.
Glasgow Mayfair: Grand Slam (Phil Lynott‘s new band).
1984. On television:
Whistle Test (BBC-2, U.K.) with a session by Everything But The Girl plus a film report on Bruce Springsteen in Philadelphia.
1985. On stage:
Marquee Club: Screaming Blue Messiahs.
100 Club: Alan Gresty/Brian White All-Stars.
Wembley Arena: George Benson.
Liverpool University: Marc Almond & The Willing Sinners.
1985. Kate Bush‘s album “Hounds Of Love” is certified platinum by the BPI. It was released on September 16, this year. Highest chart position: 1.
1985. On television:
Soul Train (U.S.A.) featuring The Thompson Twins and The Jets.
1985. On the radio:
Today’s edition of Janice Long‘s “The Evening Show” on Radio One includes a four song session by Cactus World News. It was recorded at the BBC’s Maida Vale studios on October 16th.
1986. Craig Gannon plays his last gig with the The Smiths at Manchester Free Trade Hall: The Smiths. Gannon left the gig unaware that he was out of the band. Neither Morrissey nor Marr bothered to tell him. They merely passed a message to him via Gary Rostock of Easterhouse. Morrissey later said that Gannon had to be forced to turn up in the studio and “was lazy”. He also said that, “He had nothing to say and nothing to contribute”.
1986. Boston‘s album, “Don’t Look Back” is certified 4 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Highest U.S. chart position: 2 (October 1978). Their album, “Boston” also gets a certification for 9 X platinum. Highest U.S. chart position: 3 (December 1976).
1986. On stage:
Marquee Club: Terraplane.
100 Club: The Kick, The Moment and The Reflections.
Wembley Arena: Joan Armatrading.
Edinburgh Playhouse: W.A.S.P. and Warlock.
1986. On television:
Top Of The Pops (BBC-1, U.K.), presented by Janice Long. Includes studio performances by Gwen Guthrie, Mel & Kim, Catherine Stock and Kim Wilde, along with videos of Berlin, Nick Berry and Status Quo.
Late Night With David Letterman (U.S.A.) with musical guest David Sanborn.
1986. On the radio:
Today’s edition of Janice Long‘s “The Evening Show” on Radio One includes a three song session by The Botany 500. It was recorded at the BBC’s Maida Vale studios on October 5th.
1987. Awards: Sisters Of Mercy‘s album “First And Last And Always” is finally certified silver by the BPI. It was released on March 15 1985!
1987. On stage:
Marquee Club: Blues ‘N” Trouble.
100 Club: The Boogie Brothers.
Liverpool Empire: David Essex.
1987. On television:
Late Night With David Letterman (U.S.A.) with musical guests David Sanborn and Dave Mason.
The Last Resort with Jonathan Ross (Channel 4, U.K.) Musical Guest: Chris Isaak.
1988. On stage:
Marquee Club: Something Happens! and The Milltown Brothers.
100 Club: Juice On The Loose and Jo-Jab.
Edinburgh Playhouse: Deacon Blue.
Glasgow Barrowlands: Uriah Heep and Excalibur.
1989. Award: Elton John‘s album, “Sleeping With The Past” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A.
1989. New releases: Bad English‘s new single, “When I See You Smile” The Beatles‘ single, “Something” on CD for the first time as well as being re-issued on vinyl and as a picture disc. Indigo Girls‘ new single, “Closer To Fine”. Killdozer re-issue their EP, “Intellectuals Are the Shoeshine Boys Of The Ruling Elite” and a new album “Twelve Point Buck”. The Lightning Seeds‘ new single, “Joy”. Richard Marx‘s new single, “Angelia”. The Saints‘ new album, “Prodigal Son”. Jimmy Somerville‘s debut solo single, “(Comment Te Dire) Adieu”. Highest U.K. chart position: 14. David Sylvian‘s new single, “Pop Song”. Thunder‘s new single “She’s So Fine”. Wolfsbane‘ new single, “Shakin'”. J.J. Cale‘s first new album for six years, “Travel-Log”. Will Downing‘s new album, “Come Together As One”. Gorky Park‘s debut UK album “Gorky Park”.
John Lee Hooker’s new album, “The Healer”. Jermaine Jackson’s first album for three years, “Don’t Take It Personal”. Cliff Richard‘s new album, “The Best Of Me”. Wet Wet Wet‘s new album, “Holding Back The River”.
1989. On stage:
Marquee Club: The Bollock Brothers and The Chemistry Set.
Hammersmith Odeon: The Dogs D’Amour and Under Neath What.
Glasgow Barrowlands: Fish and The Flame.
1990. R.E.M. are on their last day of recording final overdubs and vocal tracks for “Out Of Time” at John Keane‘s Studio in Athens, Georgia.
1990. Axl Rose is arrested on a charge of assaulting his neighbour Gabriela Kantor with a bottle after she called police to complain about noise from his house. He’s released later in the day on bail of $ 5,000.
1990. New release: The Traveling Wilburys‘ album, “The Traveling Wilburys Volume 3” is released in the U.S.A. Despite the title, it’s the band’s second album. No Volume 2 has ever been officially released. The group’s pseudonyms have all been changed for this release with Bob Dylan becoming Boo Wilbury; George Harrison is Spike; Jeff Lynne is Clayton and Tom Petty is now Muddy.
1990. Awards: Maxi Priest‘s single, “Close To You” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A Garth Brooks‘ album, “No Fences” is certified platinum by the R.I.A.A.
1990. On stage:
Marquee Club: Wendy Rage and Skin Games.
Wembley Arena: The Grateful Dead.
Edinburgh Playhouse: Hall And Oates.
Glasgow Barrowlands: The Charlatans and Easy.
Liverpool Polytcehnic: Blur.
1990. On television:
Late Night With David Letterman (U.S.A.) with musical guests The Neville Brothers.
1991. Tonight’s Bryan Adams‘ concert at Glasgow’s Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre sets the record for the largest all standing indoor concert ever held in Britain. The crowd of 12,000 was allowed after the venue applied for en extension to their licence after overwhelming demand for tickets.
1991. James have to cancel their appearance tonight at the University Of East Anglia in Norwich when singer Tim Booth is overcome by a throat problem. To avoid the show being cancelled Thousand Yard Stare, who have been supporting James, take over headlining duties for the night.
1991. Awards: Kenny G‘s album, “G-Force” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America).
The Alan Parsons Project’s album, “Best Of The Alan Parsons Project” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A.
1991. On stage:
Marquee Club: Loves Young Nightmare and Flower Drum.
Glasgow Queen Margaret Union: Nirvana.
1992. On stage:
Marquee Club: Stereo MC’s and Blade.
Edinburgh College Of Art: Anti-Nazi League Benefit with One People, Fenn, Two Tone Committee and The Mutiny Strings.
Glasgow King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut: Gallon Drunk and Breed.
1992. On television:
Sounds Of The Sixties (U.K.). Another chance for BBC-2 to raid Auntie’s archives. Includes Joe Cocker, Jimi Hendrix, The Nice, Pink Floyd and The Who.
The Word (U.K.). First show of a new season. Includes Neneh Cherry, Vanessa Paradis and The Sandals.
Late Night With David Letterman (U.S.A.) Musical guest: Peter Frampton.
1993. Nirvana‘s concert at the Hara Arena in Dayton, Ohio comes to an abrupt halt. Kurt Cobain, believing the band’s first drummer Chad Channing is in the hall, calls for him to join them onstage. He refuses to restart the gig until Channing appears but he’s not there. After ten minutes, Cobain is eventually persuaded that he’s not in the audience and gets on with the show. Channing, unaware of the chaos caused by his absence, hears a tape of the concert five years later and describes it as “pretty funny”.
1993. On stage:
Marquee Club: Neurosis, Pitchshifter and Grotus.
Glasgow King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut: Pele.
1993. On television:
Taratata (France 4, France). No. 31. Includes solo performances by Alain Chamfort, Faubert, Paul Young, The Pogues and Nina Moratto, along with duets by Alain Chamfort with Viktor Lazlo and Alain Chamfort with Richard Berry.
Soul Train (U.S.A.) including MC Lyte, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Mica Paris.
1994. On television:
Good Morning America (ABC, U.S.A.) with They Might Be Giants.
1995. The Shirelles are inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall Of Fame.
1995. New releases: Goldie re-issues the single “Inner City Life” as a re-mix. Oasis‘ new single, “Wonderwall”. Highest U.K. chart position: 2. Saint Etienne‘s new single, “He’s On The Phone”. Highest U.K. chart position: 11. Spiritualized‘s new single, “Lay Back In The Sun”. Super Furry Animals‘ new EP, “Moog Droog”. The Wannadies‘ new single, “Might Be Stars”. Asian Dub Foundation‘s new album, “Facts And Fictions”. Catherine Wheel‘s new album, “Happy Days”. Happy Mondays‘ new album, “Loads And Loads More”. Human League‘s best-of album, “The Greatest Hits”.
1995. On stage:
Bloomsbury Theatre: Ray Davies. An evening of acoustic songs, musical words and readings from “X-Ray”.
Glasgow Royal Concert Hall: Joan Baez.
Liverpool Casbah Club: The Pete Best Band.
1996. Awards: Shania Twain‘s eponymous album is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America). Garth Brooks‘ album, “The Hits” is certified 9 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. The Cranberries‘ album, “No Need To Argue” is certified 7 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Celine Dion‘s album, “The Colour Of My Love” is certified 4 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Melissa Etheridge‘s album, “Yes I Am” is certified 6 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. Vanessa Williams‘ album, “The Comfort Zone” is certified 3 X platinum by the R.I.A.A.
1996. On television:
Later… With Jools Holland (BBC-2, U.K.) First show of series 8. Kula Shaker – “Govinda”, “Smart Dogs”; Joe Cocker – “Delta Lady”, “Drown In My Own Tears (+ Nu Colours)”, “Can’t Find My Way Home”; The Blue Nile – “Body and Soul”, “Tinseltown In The Rain”; Jackson Browne – “The Barricades Of Heaven”, “The Two Of Me, The Two Of You”; Orbital – “Satan”
Soul Train (U.S.A.) featuring Take 6, Alfonso Hunter and 112.
The Rosie O’Donnell Show (Syndicated, U.S.A.). Guests include RuPaul.
1997. It’s announced today that Jewel has signed a $2 million deal with the publishers Harper Collins for two books. One will be a volume of poetry and the other will be her autobiography. Harper Collins beat seven other publishers in the competition to buy the rights.
1997. The Crystal Method‘s label, Outpost Recordings issue a statement regarding the arrest of the group yesterday on suspicion of possessing the drug GHB. The label says the duo of Ken Jordan and Scott Kirkland just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Outpost explained that the two were dropping off some vinyl copies of their new album, “Vegas” at the home af a Los Angeles DJ. Unfortunately the pair didn’t leave before the “whole house was over-run by police”. At the time of the statement being issued a spokesman for the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office said no charges had been made against the duo. Police are investigating their story.
1997. Awards: The Wallflowers‘ album, “Bringing Down The Horse” is certified 4 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America).
1998. The Q Awards are presented at London’s Intercontinental Hotel. The winners are:
Best Single: “Road Rage” by Catatonia.
Best Live Act: Ronnie Size/Reprazent.
Classic Songwriter: Paul Weller.
Best New Act: Gomez.
Best Producer: Norman Cook.
Best Album: “Mezzanine” by Massive Attack.
Best Act In The World: Manic Street Preachers.
Lifetime Achievement Awards: R.E.M.
Inspiration Award: Blondie.
Stepping up to collect his award, Paul Weller offered his thanks for the “Lifetime Wanker Award”.
1998. Kiss stage a dress rehearsal for tomorrow’s Halloween concert in Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles.
1998. Awards: Aerosmith‘s single, “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” is certified gold by the BPI. It was released on August 31 this year. Highest chart position: 4. Cher‘s album, “Believe” is certified silver by the BPI. The single “Believe” is certified platinum. It was released on October 19 this year. Highest chart position: 1. Julio Iglesias‘ album, “My Life” is certified gold by the BPI. It was released in May this year. Natalie Imbruglia‘s album “Left Of The Middle” is certified 3 X platinum by the BPI. It was released on November 24 1997. Highest chart position: 5. Alanis Morissette‘s album “Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie” is certified platinum by the BPI. It was released on October 26 this year. Highest chart position: 3. Savage Garden‘s album “Savage Garden” is certified 2 X platinum by the BPI. It was released on March 2 this year. Highest chart position: 2. Spacedust‘s single “Gym & Tonic” is certified silver by the BPI. It was released on October 12 this year. Highest chart position: 1. Robbie Williams‘ album “Life Thru A Lens” is certified 5 X platinum by the BPI. It was released on September 29 1997. Highest chart position: 1.
1998. On television:
Late Show with David Letterman (CBS, U.S.A.). Musical guests: Black Sabbath.
The Rosie O’Donnell Show (Syndicated, U.S.A.). Guests include Marin Mazzie.
1999. Ex-Abba star, Annifrid Lyngstad‘s husband, Count Ruzzo Reuss von Plauen, dies of cancer at the couple’s Swedish home. The ex-singer had nursed Ruzzo through his last days and was holding his hands as he died. The couple met after Annifrid’s divorce from Benny Andersson in 1981.
1999. On television :
Soul Train (Syndicated, U.S.A.) including Chico DeBarge, 112 and Trin-I-Tee 5:7.
2000. Nora Garza, features editor of “The Monitor”, a daily paper in McAllen, Texas is fired today after running a photo of The Deftones on the cover of the paper’s entertainment section published on October 27th. In the picture, singer Chino Moreno is pictured wearing a sweatshirt bearing the word “FUCT”,the name of the clothing company whose products he’s been wearing for years.
2000. Patricia Glassop, the mother of dead rock star, Michael Hutchence tells ITV’s “This Morning” show that Paula Yates drove her son to suicide. Talking to the show’s hosts, Richard Madeley & Judy Finnigan, she said that she believed Paula ‘phoned Michael hours before his death and threatened to kill herself and their daughter, Tiger Lily.
2000. At the High Court in London, it’s revealed that Sir Elton John is so rich that it was several years before he realised that £ 20 million was missing from his accounts. The details came to light during opening arguements in the court action Sir Elton is taking against Andrew Haydon, ex-managing director of John Reid Enterprises Limited (JREL), his management company and the accountants, Price Waterhouse Coopers. The singer claims Haydon was negligent in allowing JREL to charge the singer for tour expenses which should have been borne by the management company. The accountants are accused of negligence in handling Sir Elton’s affairs. Mr Gordon Pollock, Q.C., acting on behalf of Sir Elton asked the judge, Mr. Justice Ferris, if details of his client’s financial affairs could be withheld from the press to avoid “a media frenzy, putting pressure on Sir Elton”. The hearing continues.
2000. Ex-Runrig front man, Donnie Munro fails in a bid to be selected as the Labour Party candidate for the Glasgow Anniesland seat in the Scottish Parliament. In a vote of local party officials, Munro was beaten by 96 votes to 22 by Glasgow City Councillor, Bill Butler.
2000. Awards: Rare Earth‘s single, “Get Ready”, is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America). Their albums, “Ecology” and “Rare Earth In Concert” both get a gold certification and the album, “Get Ready”, gets a platinum. Aaron Carter‘s album, “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It)” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A. Michael Jackson‘s album, “Blood On The Dancefloor: History In The Mix” is certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. and the album, “Thriller” gets upgraded to 26 X platinum. Mystikal‘s album, “Let’s Get Ready” is certified platinum by the R.I.A.A.
2000. On television tonight:
The Frank Skinner Show (ITV, U.K.) Guests include Fatboy Slim.
2001. Snoop Dogg (real name Calvin Broadus) pleads not guilty through his lawyer, Jay Milano, to a charge of drug possession at a court in Oberlin, Ohio. A pre-trial hearing date is set for December 11th. The charges stem from October 17th, when Snoop Dogg’s bus was pulled over outside Cleveland for speeding. Police then searched the vehicle with sniffer dogs and found 200 grammes of marijuana in the cargo hold. While the marijuana only carries a fine of $ 100, the paraphenalia which was also found carries a maximum sentence of 30 days in prison.
2001. Awards: The Charlie Daniels Band‘s album, “A Decade Of Hits” is certified 4 X platinum by the R.I.A.A. (Recording Industry Association of America). Macy Gray‘s album, “The Id” is certified gold by the R.I.A.A.
2001. On television:
Late Show With David Letterman (CBS, U.S.A.). Musical guest: Laurie Anderson.
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (NBC, U.S.A.) 2148. Musical guest: Lenny Kravitz.
2002. Rapper MC Hammer, an ordained minister, officiates at the wedding of actor Corey Feldman to Susie Sprague. The ceremony takes place on the set of the TV show, “The Surreal Life” in which both Felman and Hammer are currently starring.
2002. Jam Master Jay (real name Jason Mizell), 37, DJ with Run-DMC is shot while sitting in a second-floor lounge at a recording studio in Jamaica, Queens, New York. Two men entered the lounge, they shot Mizell once in the head and another man once in the arm before making their escape. The DJ died at the scene. The other victim of the shootings, Urieco Rincon, 25, was taken to Mary Immaculate Hospital where he was described as being in a stable condition.
2002. Tommy Lee is heading home from meeting American troops in South Korea and then Pearl Harbour. While the trip isn’t unusual, Lee is keen that his nine days away should be counted towards the 450 hours community service he was sentenced to in 1998 for assaulting his wife of the time, Pamela Anderson. As he’s only completed 212 hours, in five years, he really needs to get the court to accept it.
2002. On television:
Late Show with David Letterman (CBS, U.S.A.) including Warren Zevon. The second half of the show is given over to a set by Zevon, an old friend of Letterman’s, who’s been recently diagnosed as having terminal cancer.
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (NBC, U.S.A.) 2361. Musical guests: Marilyn Manson; Shaggy.
2003 On television:
The Ellen DeGeneres Show (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 39. Guests include R.E.M. who perform their new single “Bad Day” and “Losing my Religion.”
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (NBC, U.S.A.) 2584. Musical guest: Mandy Moore.
2004. On television:
Austin City Limits (PBS, U.S.A.) 398. Lyle Lovett followed by Jamie Cullum.
Parkinson (ITV, U.K.) Featuring an interview with Sharon Osbourne and a performance from the Scissor Sisters.
Saturday Night Live (NBC,U.S.A.) 569. Musical guest: Eminem – “Mosh”, “Just Lose It”.
Soul Train (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 1081. O’Ryan – “Shorty”, “Take it Slow”; Silkk the Shocker – “We Like Them Girls”; Boyz II Men – “What You Won’t Do for Love” and “Sara Smile”.
2005. On stage:
London Royal Albert Hall: Simply Red, Amy Smith
Glasgow King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut: Longview, Fell City Girl, Nick Reilly.
2006. On television:
The Ellen DeGeneres Show (Syndicated, U.S.A.) 556. Guests include Barry Manilow, who performs “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” from his hit CD “The Greatest Songs of the Sixties.”
2007. Linda Stein, socialite, real estate agent to the stars and one-time manager of The Ramones, is found murdered in her Fifth Avenue apartment. She became an influential figure in the U.S. punk movement during the time she was married to Seymour Stein, owner of Sire Records. After the couple divorced, she turned to real estate finding properties for Billy Joel, Sting, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Jann Wenner and Damon Dash amongst others.
2007. On television:
Late Show with David Letterman (CBS, U.S.A.) Musical guests include Slash who pops by to give Dave the lowdown on his life with Axl Rose. Nicole Atkins performs “The Way It Is”.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Wednesday 29th October):
Birth
1944. Denny Laine (Moody Blues/Wings) born Brian Arthur Haynes on the island of Jersey.
On Stage
1997. Adam Yauch (The Beastie Boys) joins a rally in Washington D.C. to protest against China’s human rights abuses in Tibet during the first visit of the Chinese president, Jiang Zemin.
In Court
1999. David Lee Roth files a lawsuit in a Los Angeles court against his former personal manager, Ed Anderson. Anderson had, with the singer’s agreement, set up a web site to sell Roth merchandise but had been asked to remove it in February. Dave’s lawyer, Jeff Bernice said the suit was, “Roth attempting to clean up the bootlegging and piracy of his image off the internet”.
In Hospital
1981. Ten years on from the day of Duane Allman‘s death, Allman Brothers’ Band bassist, Lamar Williams undergoes surgery, at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Los Angeles, to remove part of his lung and two ribs. Two years ago he was diagnosed as suffering from lung cancer which doctors speculate may have been caused by contact with Agent Orange in Vietnam.
On Television
1967. The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour (ABC, U.S.A.) The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band – “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic”
Death
1963. Michael Holiday dies in Croydon General Hospital aged 35 after suffering a drug overdose.
Babble
My comments about Future Publishing yesterday really did bring back some memories. It was a rather insane period between 1999 and 2002. I had heard about First Tuesday, a networking event held around the country that brought together entrepreneurs with accountants, solicitors, advisors and most importantly, angels and venture capitalists. Within six months, I’d gathered a team of people who should have been far too sensible to hang around with me and was pitching for money.
If you’ve ever watched “Dragon’s Den”, you’ll have an idea of what it’s like. First Tuesday was great because it encouraged the concept of the “elevator pitch”. Imagine you’ve walked into an elevator (or lift for those of us on this side of the pond) and there’s a wealthy venture capitalist or investor. You’ve literally got the time between floors to interest or excite them.
I did the elevator pitch to a number of companies and one bit. So much so that I ended up pitching to the European board of a major international science and technology company for £ 32 million! Yes, really. That much! At one point, we (there were two of us there) even had the board up on their feet playing air guitar though one board member asked if he could play air sax! Unbelievably they said yes and passed it to their board in the States when the bubble burst.
Back at First Tuesday, I was approached by a fund manager who’d been head-hunted by Future looking to expand their business into radio and TV. They thought Rockmine was a one-stop facility that could power these and more. The buy-out never happened. The day before they were due to make their offer for the archive, Future’s share price was more than £ 9. Within weeks, it had fallen to 19 pence!
Luckily for me, no-one knew how bad it was going to get. Fully anticipating a turn-around and the ability to come back with an offer at a later time, I was put in golden handcuffs. The company paid me an editor’s salary not to work for their competitors and to give them first option on the Rockmine Almanac.
From time to time, Classic Rock would phone up and ask for info assuming they could access whatever they wanted. When it was pointed out to them that under the terms of my contract they had to pay me for anything, the phone calls soon stopped.
One day, about seven months into my contract, I got a call from Scott Rowley, the editor of Total Guitar. He wanted to know who I was and why I was on the payroll without providing anything for Future. It seemed anyone who knew of the offer to buy Rockmine or my golden handcuffs had left and although they found my contract, it didn’t say why I’d been given it. Scott was sent north to interview me and prepare an internal report to explain what I was being paid for.
The report was done and apart from getting a copy, I never heard anything more. When I contacted the company at the end of the year to let them see the almanac, there was little interest in it as such but they did ask if I’d consider pitching to start a new magazine with it as the basis!
I came home, thought about that for a few days and figured it was a non-starter. First Tuesday slowly fell apart. The glory days of free bars and serious drinking were gone. I did some diligence work for investors but gradually lost touch with everyone and just buried my head in the archive.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Tuesday 28th October):
Birth
1941. Hank B. Marvin (The Shadows) born Brian Rankin in Newcastle, Northumberland.
On Tour
1990. Six people are arrested and a number of fans injured when a riot breaks out after The High call a halt to their gig at Newcastle University. Singer John Matthews left the stage after almost collapsing during the second song. The rest of the band played a 15 minute instrumental version of “Bombay Mix” but Matthews wasn’t well enough to return and the crowd decided to make their own entertainment.
In Custody
1965. Eric Burdon (The Animals) is arrested by police at his Chelsea home for failing to appear in court to answer a summons elleging that he did not pay import duty on a camera. He is bailed to appear at Uxbridge Magistrates Court on November 1st.
In Business
1997. David Bowie is named Britain’s richest rock star with a fortune of $ 917 million according to “Business Age”. A $ 55 million Wall Street bond issue secured on the star’s back catalogue helped push Bowie past Paul McCartney for the first time.
On Television
1972. Beat Club (WDR, West Germany) 81: Ike & Tina Turner, Everly Brothers, Grease Band, Byrds, Mick Abrahams, Manassas, Heads Hands & Feet, James Taylor, Three Dog Night. Here are Manassas with “Hide It So Deep”
Death
1991. R&B vocalist Billy Wright (“The Prince Of Blues”) dies from a pulmonary embolism in Atlanta, Georgia aged 73.
Babble
First of all, I have to point out that the Newcastle connection in three of today’s entries was totally unintentional. If you noticed it, I’m sorry, there are no prizes!
Having done a slightly longer rant than normal in babble I pressed the publish button about 20 minutes ago and lost everything. I have taken the added precaution of saving this one a couple of times.
As if I haven’t got enough blogs, I am seriously considering another. This time concentrating on memorabilia; both my own and other interesting items I come across. Partly, it’s as a result of listing some new additions to Rockmine’s main site and still not finding them on the search engines. Whether this was down to the spiders giving up on me while I was having a major sulk and not posting remains to be seen. Anyway, those days are behind me and I’m full of positive thinking now!
One thing I am surprised by is the lack of interest in the Fillmore blog. I know I’ve only got one year up but it’s one of the most famous venues in the world with an array of astonishing bands. maybe that’s also down to the spiders.
To try and get a handle on what is happening with the spiders, I’m going to do another of my blatant plugs. If you don’t want to see it, look away now.
Here are three of the most interesting items for sale on Rockmine just now:
Kate Bush – Cathy.Privately published in 1986 by Kate’s brother John Carder Bush. This really is a beautiful book and almost impossible to find. Back in 2001, Future Publishing, the magazine group were keen to buy me and the archive. It even got to the point of me being flown down to meet the board and have a formal offer made but the day of the meeting their share price fell 25% and it never happened. I digress, as usual. Mick Wall, who was then editor of Classic Rock had come to see the archive. When he was browsing through it, he saw this book and was very keen that the magazine reprint some of it. Unfortunately, that never happened. It’s a pity as many fans will never get the chance to see these wonderful shots.
George Harrison – Konnichiwa. The rarest Beatle related book EVER made? George Harrison commissioned 30 to give as personal gifts on a concert tour of Japan.
Derek Taylor – Fifty Years Adrift. Probably the best Beatles-related book ever written. 23 years after it was published, normal copies of this are extremely hard to find and always very expensive. This is not part of the limited edition and is neither numbered nor signed. A real rarity!
For more on the collectable rock books available for sale on Rockmine, click here.
Finally, on the subject of collectable books, I’ll be adding a true gem to Rockmine in the next day or so. A copy of Pink Floyd‘s “Shine On” signed on the title page in three different pens by David Gilmour, Nick Mason and Rick Wright.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Monday 27th October):
Birth
1942. Philip Catherine (Focus, Larry Coryell) born in London, England.
In Sickness And In Health
1970. Peter Asher, 26, (Peter & Gordon) marries former Rolling Stones publicist Betsy Doster, 27, at Marylebone Register Office in London.
In Court
1997. Following toy company Mattel’s lawsuit against MCA Records and Danish pop group Aqua, alleging trademark violation in the hit single, “Barbie Girl”, MCA today file a countersuit. The label claims that it has been defamed by the toy maker which has subjected it to “hatred, contempt and ridicule”. It goes on to allege that Mattel’s suit has caused a loss of reputation as well as an unspecified sum of money.
In Hospital
1979. The Specials/Selector/Madness gig at Hatfield Polytechnic is disrupted when 30 banner carrying members of the Hatfield Anti-Fascist League gatecrash the venue. They make several random attacks on members of the audience with razors and knives and at least one of the gang is knocked unconscious after being caught by skinheads. Some members of the audience are taken to the local hospital where they are detained overnight for treatment. It seems likely that the gang, also known as the Cockney Reds, is responsible for a recent attack on an Upstarts gig at the Nashville in London.
On Television
1973. Disco (ZDF, West Germany) 34. Cherrie Vangelder-Smith; Tony Marshall; Sweet; Christian Anders; Mungo Jerry; Adamo; John Kincade; Bobbie McGee; Udo Jürgens. Here are Mungo Jerry with “Alright, Alright, Alright”.
Death
1980. Steve Peregrine-Took (real name Steve Ross Porter) dies when he chokes on a cocktail cherry at his flat in London.
Babble
There’s a new addition to the ballroom blogs. The Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco is now online with 1966. It includes a number of posters for the gigs and a dozen YouTube clips with some great bands like Sopwith Camel, Sam The Sham And The Pharaohs, The Turtles and The Wildflower. There’s even Jefferson Airplane from the night of the listing!
There is one band that links the Fillmore to the Two Red Shoes and Ballerina ballrooms, they played all three venues in 1966 – The Mindbenders! It’s fascinating to compare the acts playing the different ballrooms at the same period. In the U.K., we were dancing to beat groups and chart acts but in San Francisco it was a more underground scene that seemed to develop out of the jug band and folk cultures. That said, there’s blues, psychedelia and pop all thrown in for good measure.
One thing’s sure, the Fillmore has a treasure trove of rare rock video to plunder. Thanks to the wonders of YouTube, there’s no need for standards conversion which was long the bane of collectors. I remember the days of optical copies of NTSC video tapes. A multi-standard VCR and TV would have a video camera set up in front of them and the show would be recorded to PAL that way. Digital conversions in the 1980s were expensive and often no better quality.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Sunday 26th October):
Birth
1911. Gospel singer Mahalia Jackson born in New Orleans.
In Fashion
1991. Cher is declared “the World’s Worst Dressed Woman” of the past 30 years by fashion guru Richard Blackwell.
In Custody
1999. Thomas Cusick who’s written songs for Neil Diamond, Barry Manilow, Lionel Richie and most recently “Don’t You Go” for Ricky Martin surrenders to police in Philadelphia. After being charged with multiple counts of corruption of a minor, indecent assault and child endangerment he’s released on bail of $ 300,000. The charges follow allegations from one of Cusick’s adopted sons that he was abused. Investigations revealed that another four boys had suffered similar assaults. Over the years, the 47 year old had adopted or fostered 24 boys and 4 girls in Pennsylvania and New York. Many had been handled by Downey Side a well-respected agency which finds homes for difficult children in New York.
In Court
1964. Karl Denver (real name Angus Murdo McKenzie) appears in the Divorce Court in London to answer a maintenance summons. His ex-wife’s solicitors had been seeking a commital order but Mr. Justice Payne, presiding, refuses and adjourns the case to allow examination of Denver’s accounts. He orders the singer to continue to pay the arrears at the sum of £ 15 a week.
On Television
1999. Later… With Jools Holland (BBC-2, U.K.) 14.3. Madness; Pavement; Cheikh Lô (with Pee Wee Ellis On Flute); Richard Thompson; Tori Amos; Jimmy Scott. Here are Pavement with “Sinister Purpose” and “Folk Jam”.
Death
1999. German pop star Rex Gildo (real name Ludwig Hirtreiter) dies from heart failure in a Munich hospital, three days after trying to commit suicide by jumping from the third-floor window of his apartment. He was 60.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Wednesday 22nd October):
Birth
1956. Stiv Bators (Lords Of The New Church) born in Cleveland, Ohio.
In Custody
2000. Former Allman Brothers Band guitarist, Dickey Betts (real name Forrest R. Betts), is arrested at his home in Osprey, Florida, on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. His wife said he attacked her, pushed her to the floor and hit her. The Saratosa County Sheriff’s Office said when officers arrived at the house, they found Betts intoxicated. He was taken to the county jail, where he was held overnight before being released on $ 10,000 bail.
In Politics
2000. Ex-Runrig front-man Donnie Munro, announces that he has allowed his name to go forward for nomination as a Labour candidate for the Glasgow Anniesland constituency of the Scottish parliament. The 47 year old singer stood for Ross, Skye and Inverness West at the General Election but was beaten by a small margin. Making his announcement, he said that several weeks ago he had been urged by Donald Dewar, Scotland’s First Minister, to stand for the Scottish Parliament. Ironically, with Dewar’s untimely death, a safe Labour seat is up for grabs. It’s this one that Munro hopes to contest.
In Hospital
1979. Shortly after starting their set at Tiffany’s in Edinburgh, After The Fire‘s drummer, Ivor Twidell collapses with a heart attack. He’s rushed to hospital where he makes a full recovery. His place is taken for the rest of the band’s U.K. tour by Nick Brotherhood (ex-Mighty Flyers).
On Television
1995. Taratata (France 4, France) No. 105. Recorded 2 octobre 1995. Solos: Jimmy Cliff; Billy Paul. Duos: Jimmy Cliff & Bernard Lavilliers; Jimmy Cliff & Billy Paul – “Jammin'”
Death
1989. Folk singer Ewan MacColl dies in London.
Babble
The Marquee Club Blog is starting to take shape and I think I’ve settled on the format. January to April of 1981 is now complete and includes 4 adverts, 8 reviews, 17 YouTube clips and one image. Hope you’ll see why I didn’t attempt to do complete years to a page!
As usual, the trouble about going through old music papers is I keep finding other, interesting things; news stories that I need to get exact dates for and articles I don’t remember. Also, my biggest drawback at the moment is my office has been given a make-over and I really have to remember to put papers away and not leave them in ever growing piles on my newly painted floor. It may well be the first time in 20 years that I’ve been able to move all round the room.
Talking of finding things, I’ve uncovered some autographed stuff that had been carefully stored, or forgotten, that I’ll get on line in the next day or two. As it’s a bright, sunny day, I’ll get the camera out and take some shots of what I’ve found. I suppose I better get back to work, or at least put the music papers away.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Tuesday 21st October):
Birth
1940. Manfred Mann born Michael Lubowitz in Johannesburg, South Africa.
On Tour
1973. 20 teenage girls are hurt as part of a wall and 30 feet of railing collapses on them at London’s Heathrow Airport. The wall gave way to pressure from thousands of fans gathered on the viewing gallery above. More than 10,000 girls were there to see The Osmonds arrive. Many had camped out overnight. The British Airports Authority announces it will review access for fans to ensure this never happens again. The group had been at the airport on October 18th but fans were unaware as there was no publicity. Airport officials have blamed the fanclub for notifying its 60,000 members that the group were arriving back from Copenhagen today.
In Custody
1998. Police in Surrey today confirm that Paul Weller was arrested during the week and questioned concerning an allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman at a party in Farnham, Surrey in 1996. After questioning Weller was released on police bail. The allegation has been made by a 36 year old woman who claims to have been to traumatised by her rape to contact police at the time.
In Court
1966. Wayne Fontana is fined £ 15 by a court in Barking, London after being caught speeding in his Jaguar at 64-66 m.p.h. in a 40 m.p.h. limit.
On Television
2005. Later… With Jools Holland (BBC-2, U.K.) Goldfrapp, Editors, Burt Bacharach with Rufus Wainwright, Brendan Benson, Corinne Bailey Rae. Here’s Burt and Rufus with, “Go Ask Shakespeare”.
Death
1965. Bill Black, Elvis’ guitarist 1954-1957 dies in Memphis, Tennessee.
A regular blog is the easiest and quickest way to update what’s happening with memorabilia, so here goes.
Following the abandoning of any thoughts of a memorabilia exhibition in Elgin, I’ll be adding items that would have been included in that.
The first two items are classic and stunning images from the Jimi Hendrix Exhibition which were sold at a charity auction in 1993. The one seen above is “The Fist” by Jim Marshall and the one below is “Rings” by an unknown photographer. In case you think it odd that I’d planned to include Jimi in an exhibition in Elgin, there is actually a link. Noel Redding, Jimi’s bass player was a regular visitor to the Two Red Shoes as lead guitarist with Neil Landon And The Burnettes.
There, you’ll find a selection of some of the most interesting and most collectable rock books in the world. We’ve “Cathy“, the wonderful book of photographs of Kate Bush published privately in 1986; “Konnichiwa“, one of only 32 ever published for George Harrison to give as gifts on his tour of Japan. Two other George Harrison books – “Songs By George Harrison” and “Songs By George Harrison Volume 2“. Neither is numbered or signed, except by Keith West, the illustrator. Volume 2 even comes with both the CD and 7” E.P.
Lastly, for now, Derek Taylor‘s “Fifty Years Adrift“. Many consider this to be the best Beatles related book ever written. It’s lavishly illustrated and packed with memorabilia. Published in a limited edition of 2,000, copies are known to sell for £ 5,000! This clearly states that it isn’t part of the limited edition but a review copy. It’s neither numbered nor signed but is much rarer than those which are.
That’s all for now, I’ll list items here as and when I add them to Rockmine.
From the Rockmine Almanac for today (Monday 20th October):
Birth
1945. Ric Lee (Ten Years After) born in Cannock, Staffordshire.
On Tour
1964. The Beatles tight schedule means they have to turn down an invitation to take tea with the Countess Of Strathmore at Glamis Castle before they play Dundee’s Caird Hall. Instead, they ask if she’ll join them for tea at the hall before they go onstage. She takes up the invitation accompanied by her Lady-In-Waiting and her private secretary before taking her seat in the audience to watch the show.
In Court
1999. At the inquest into the death of Blues Traveller bassist Bobby Sheehan in New Orleans, Coroner Frank Minyard rules that death was caused by an accidental overdose.
To The Rescue
2000. Two ten year old boys in Oklahoma are saved from a scrub fire moving towards their house when Garth Brooks drives up to their door and rescues them. One of the brothers said that Brooks hammered on their door and yelled at them to get into his truck. They had no idea who he was until a neighbour said, “You just got saved by Garth Brooks”. The singer’s in-laws live a few minutes drive from the scene of the fire and he’s said to be building a home nearby.
On Television
1977. Rockpalast (WDR, West Germany) Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow; Kingfish (Olympiahalle München). Here are Rainbow with “Mistreated”
Death
1977. Lynyrd Skynyrd members Ronnie Van Zandt, Steve Gaines and his wife Cassie plus roadie Dean Kilpatrick die in a plane crash. The other members of the band all sustain injuries.
Babble
The blog’s been a bit neglected this last ten days. Blame holidays and decorating. Anyway, it’s back now. I hope you did miss it.
As you know, the long heralded, never to be memorabilia exhibition in Elgin has been consigned to the bin and I’m slowly moving some of the stuff that should have been in it along with some great memorabilia on to my main site. For those of you who don’t want to be burdened with info about that I’ll be adding a separate posting for a while.
On the blog front, I’ve now got a number of ballroom blogs although only a couple of them are online properly. The idea was to link some of the best ballrooms and clubs of the 1960s (and 70s) together. Each follows a similar pattern with listings, images and YouTube clips that really do evoke the exact period. The ones for the Avalon Ballroom and Fillmores will also include some of the iconic posters which advertised the dances there.
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