jonnywilliams

Newsletter June 2009
Hi Everyone,
Once again, apologies for not keeping on top of the newsletter and gig guide as often as I should have, since the last one things haven't really calmed down in one way or another !
I’ll fill you in from where I left of on the last letter.
The new van was delivered back in October, and thankfully (touch wood) that’s been an end to my van problems...but a whole heap of other problems would raise their heads in the new year!
My first gig in the new van was at Esckrick and Deighton club, always a great night there, and one of the rare listening venues, followed by a jaunt down south for a night in Cambridge followed by Ipswich the night after, and on to Kent and Ipswich again on the way back home.
The End of October I had a few nights off, and was lucky enough to get two tickets for the Jerry Lee Lewis concert in London on Tuesday 28th, MaryJean (Jerry Lee’s niece) decided a show the night before for some of the fans might be an idea, so I was asked along as special guest which was very nice, although the night was pretty poorly attended, I did get to meet and chat with legendary radio and tv presenter David Allen, who some of you will know from his column in Country Music People, and of course he presented “Sing Country” when that was broadcast on BBC2 in the 70’s and 80’. Also on the bill was Wee Willie Harris, who put on a decent show.
Kev who was still undergoing yet more chemotherapy came with me to the shows, and we both had a great time, and Jerry Lee was on top form and did a great show.
After the trip it was back to work and to one of my all time favourite venues, The Kings Theatre in Newmarket, where I shared the stage with Nigel Boy Syer, really nice chap who entertained the crowd well with his humour and songs. Me and Laura stayed overnight,
before travelling up to March to the Braza club, for an afternoon show alongside Gerry Ford who was performing his last ever show before retirement, and thoroughly entertaining it was too, I also met up with an old school friend I’d not seen in 26 years who came along for the show.
In November myself and Laura were invited to the Chuck Berry concert in London as Chuck Berry juniors guests, a long story of how we got the tickets, but basically I helped sort out a huge cock up between Chuck’s promoters and the Dome at Doncaster who were selling
tickets for Chuck Berry, when I knew for a fact the show was not on his itinerary and he would not be there, the Dome and the promoter were worse than very poor at sorting out the problem, and were still selling tickets up to a week before the show, eventually we sorted it and as a thankyou we got the Invite, a great show and I could not believe the energy Chuck had at 82 years of age !! He came bounding down the stairs like a teenager ! Great show and great to see another legend of Rock n Roll within three weeks of seeing another !
Before we knew it Christmas was upon us, and as usual we had my folks down and Lauras mum and dad here, it was good to have Kev with us and seemingly the Chemo had helped yet again, and a great Christmas was had by all of us.
New years eve had me at another great club in the North East , the Top Club at South Shields, where I shared the night with Little Rock, thanks to them for letting me use their gear that night.
A busier than normal January for me which was good, and first one in was Louth Conservative club, one I’d not done in a long time, had a great night, look forward to going back next year. End of January had me at another favourite of mine, Dons club in Whittlesey, sadly the owners have sold up and moved, and although im still booked there for October, I have been informed unofficially that the new owners are stopping country music, so I’ll keep you posted on that one. Next night I was down to Manston In Kent and stayed with my mate Peter who I saw a few months earlier in London at the Jerry Lee gig, so good to catch up with him and get some recordings of the rest of Jerrys European tour !

The following weekend I was in Wales and the Northwest, on what should have been a 4 night run, unfortunately one of the clubs had closed not due to lack of support, but down to politics between the club and the country night organisers, so came home and had a Saturday night off…..which is when the new problems raised their ugly heads ! Most of you will be aware by now that me and Laura are no more, this was the weekend it happened,February 1st.. there was no big scandal, or bust up, but she just told me she wanted out and didn't love me anymore, it had been brewing for a while I guess, and when she actually came out and said it, there wasn't much I could do….after all you cant make someone love you. To say I was devastated would be an understatement, I really didn't want it to happen, but I knew this was it and there would be no turning back, I tried to get things back on track the following week, but it wasn't to be , her mind was made up, and she’d be leaving. I was just
starting a 7 night run of gigs, and really didn't want to go and do them, but I had to, around the same time, we learned that Kev was now a sick man, with the cancer spreading to his brain, and was told there was no more treatment they could possibly give him, so with the break up and this to deal with it was a tough time indeed, Laura was still here at the house until she made other arrangements which made things even harder, I knew I’d lost more weight, that I didn't want to lose, but I couldn't say anything to anyone as our split wasn't common knowledge and we felt the time wasn't quite right then to tell Laura’s mum and dad (Kev) so I had to grin and bare it through February and March. I am pleased to say I never missed a gig and gave it my all as I always try to do, and thanks to you all (even though you didn't know) for getting me through it by just being there
The months since then have been a bit of a rollercoaster, but happy enough, once I got over the split, which thanks to lots and lots of support from family and friends and circumstances that arose soon after didn't take me long to know it was for the best ,Laura has a new man who she lives with, and I hope she’ll be happy and finds what she’s looking for.
I had some time to myself and had a bit of fun along the way, and was quite happy with the single life, even wrote some songs which will be on the new album, (planning recording soon) and spent lots of time with friends, one particular friend who I’d known for two years or so I started spending a bit more time with, Lynnette Marie who was an absolute rock to me when I was feeling low, she started coming out to some of my gigs, and I went to some of hers on my nights off, and the
friendship has blossomed from there to more than “just good friends” of course the country music circuit gossips tongues were wagging pretty soon as they always do, so now I can say here officially that yes we are an item ! Now they’ll have to find something else to gossip about I guess !
Over the past few weeks at gigs, as always happens when another artists come to see you, you get asked if your getting them up for a number or two...so Lynnette and myself thought we’d work on a few duets to do on such nights...well on the nights that we’ve done them, they’ve gone down a bomb...and as a result we’ve taken some duo bookings...which will be a nice change, but to make another thing clear, we are NOT stopping our solo work, im as busy as ever, as is Lynnette , but we will be taking a certain amount of duo work as and when requested at certain venues.
Back to the gigs now….and in May after two great duo gigs with Les Payne, who’d got man flu and was sneezing his head off on the way home in my van...I soon started with the same stinking cold/bad chest and it was affecting my pipes somewhat ! As Lynnette was free this particular weekend she made the trip to Exeter with me and did a couple of numbers and a couple of duets with me, the following night after a 5 hour drive from there to Kent, my voice was in bad shape, but too late to cancel, so I asked the organiser if she minded a duo that night, she was more than happy to say yes, so we did the three full sets for the first time together, I was pleasantly surprised when Lynnette jumped in with some lovely harmony vocals on all my songs, and she also performed some of her songs too, after the first spot, we were booked for the clubs festival next year.
Over the past few weeks unfortunately Kev’s condition was rapidly deteriorating and we knew the brave fight he’s been fighting for 4 years was finally coming to an end
And this morning (June 24th 2009) Kev sadly passed away…..he will be greatly missed by me as one of the very best friends anyone could ever wish for, who would do anything for you at the drop of a hat, always happy and smiling, with a cracking sense of humour and who’d call a spade a spade….R.I.P buddy...we’ll all miss you.
That’s about all for my round up for now….again apologies for this being the first one this year.,...but as you’ll see ive not had a lot of time!!
Thanks for your continued support….look forward to seeing you round the trail
Jonny

Jonny Williams Newsletter October 2008
Hi All,
Hoping this finds you all well, and getting revved up for Christmas, I can not believe where this year has gone, this is my second newsletter this year, and will be longer than
previous ones as im so far behind in getting one done, when you read on, you’ll realise why !

You may remember back in April I started with van problems after the boys in blue stopped me, well I’ve been dogged by them ever since really, the week after I got things sorted I was on my may back from a great afternoon gig at the BRAZA club in March, Cambs when my engine seized up, after getting towed home and realising it would be a big job getting an
engine fitted, I decided I’d be better off buying another van to keep me on the road, I luckily had a few days off to get this sorted, and bought a ford transit, which I got ready with the help of Kev for going out on the road, with there being no tax on the van, I had to get a new cover not from my insurers, who I have now got rid of as thanks to their incompetence, I didn't get it covered and spent hours on the phone with them while they lied and said they had sent a cover note out, then they were sending one out blah blah blah….by this time I was desperate because I had a gig the next night and no tax! So I had to take out a new policy with a different company, get them to courier me the cover note, which came an hour before I had to head off up to the north east, so I rushed to the post office to get my disc, and headed off stressed out, up to the north east, bearing in mind all this had been going on for a week, and still no sign of the old van being repaired due to mismatched engines, pumps and everything else ! The tour went fine and the gigs went well, despite the van not running right !
We had a great gig at the Lazy Acre in Shrewsbury on the 26th May along with Les Payne, but the van still wasn't running right, so it was up to the mechanics where he discovered a small leak that was pulling in air, so I paid out for a full service, new cam belt, fan belt, steering belt, oil change etc ..the works.. And off I set for a tour down south starting in Cwmbran in Wales, which went well, though upon setting of the next morning to go to
Plymouth, the battery was almost flat, and only just started the van, I got all the way to
Plymouth, switched off the engine at the venue, and being early I thought I’d have a quick “power nap” and I’d park up somewhere quieter, turned the ignition key…..nothing ! Luckily I was parked on a hill, so I could bump start it, but I thought I’ll wait until the organiser turns up, so I waited, and I waited, at 6.20 I called her, only to be greeted with a short silence, followed by the words every artist dreads (especially when your 300 miles from home in a knackered van) “ I rang you and changed the date of the gig” I had to laugh….what else could go wrong ?? There was a mix up somewhere along the lines, but I am sure as hell I wouldn't have been sat there had I known about a change of date ! (the date in question I was booked for over 12 months ago anyway so I couldn't have done it)
Anyway I thought OK nothing I can do but set of on the long trip to Knighton in Staffs for my afternoon gig the next day, I bump started the van, and set off…...10 miles out of
Plymouth, my speedo went down, temperature gauge went down, the sat nav switched off,
As I pulled over I realised it was a battery/alternator fault, so I called out greenflag, and a good ol country bumpkin kinda guy showed up, and noticed the alternator was loose, hence my battery wasn't charging….upon further inspection, the bottom bolt had come out of it too ! So he fixed it and got me on my way….i arrived at knighton at 11.45pm ready for a big drink !! While parking up the van, and putting my steering lock on, it started squeeling...i was about ready to snap by this time, so I just left it and had a few beers before sleeping and getting set up the next morning along with Travis Logan who I was sharing the bill with, it’s a great little festival this one run by Ivor James and Dianne, so after setting up I rang greenflag again and out they came, this time it was the power steering belt that had worked loose !
So that fixed, I relaxed. We had a spot each in the afternoon and a spot each at night to do, me and Travis went into town and had a nice Chinese meal to set us up for the night gig, which I really enjoyed, and Travis’s music and song selection was superb,as was his whole show and delivery.
I retired to the van for a good nights sleep before I was to head off on the long drive to Hemsby the next morning.So I set off on my way and got stuck in traffic on the M6 the drive took me about 7 hours without a break, and I arrived tired and pi**ed off, the icing on the cake being stung on the back by a bee that flew in the window a few miles before arriving, luckily the sting didn't go right in and I managed to get it out.
I was greeted by Dave Ingold from VWP and the welcome was second to none, got a lift in with my gear and met with Tony Goodacre and his band, and I got set up for the evenings show, and went and rested up for a while in my chalet.
The evening show was superb and I had a ball, despite feeling rough towards then end of my last set, I just put it down to being tired. I had a couple of drinks with Alan Gregory while we watched Tony and the band close the night off, and I retired to bed.
Up for breakfast the next morning, and one spot to do at lunchtime, then I’d be
heading home.
Just before I was due on I started to feel rather ill, tight chest, shaky limbs, I didn't know what was wrong and thought I’d be ok once I got going, three songs in I couldn't continue, light headed, tight chest, and an awful weakness all over my body, I apologized to the crowd, and was escorted off stage to the dressing room, where looking in the mirror I looked like death warmed over ! The paramedics were called and within minutes I had an oxygen mask, heart monitors, blood pressure monitor, pulse monitor...to say I was a bit worried is an understatement !
They confirmed I wasn't having a heart attack, but wanted to take me to hospital to check me out, poor Tony Goodacre who had a bad throat went on and finished my set, and went straight into his won ! A true pro !!
En-route to the hospital the paramedic took my details, and asked “have you been under any stress lately” !!!! I laughed ! I started at the beginning and told him the past 6 weeks events ! He said I had completely over done it and it was a stress related panic attack I had had, my body's way of screaming “enough” and I had to take it easy
So heart monitors removed I was discharged, and what did I do ?? Drove the 4 hour journey back to Sheffield ! Well I just wanted to get home, as I hadn't told Laura and didn't want her worrying, or hearing anything on the jungle drums which inevitably started within that day that I had 1. Died 2. Had a heart attack, 3. Dramatically
collapsed onstage !
I went to my GP who said my blood pressure was too high, I was overweight, and my cholesterol level was too high, so that was the kick up the bum I needed to start doing something about it sooner rather than later, after a couple of cancelled gigs to rest up I started cutting out the rubbish food and started swimming 3 times a week, by mid june (a week later) I was back out on the road, van fixed and refreshed, and feeling good, and on a health kick !
Gigs were going great and had some crackers including, Thurcroft m.w in Doncaster, Aiden.J.Daniels festival in Leeds, and the Winchester Gentlemans festival in Wigon.
The start of July had me and Laura up in Redcar where Sophie my daughter and her band were in the final once again of the Battle of the bands competition, which im pleased to say they very deservedly won !
Following week I was out for a few days touring, taking me to Wrexham, followed by Southport, then the Norbreck in Blackpool for a lunchtime session, which as always I enjoyed. I headed off after for the long drive to Debenham in Suffolk, where I was on the following afternoon, upon arrival, I met up with Jolene and Barrie who were
performing that night, along with First Chapter, who’s lead singer Ray was playing with Tony Goodacres band when I was taken ill, so was good to see him and let him know I was now OK ! I spent the night watching the bands along with Arizona flame, who are a great bunch of guys with a superb sense of humour, they had played the day before and were staying over.Next morning I set up on the curtain sided trailer, along with Souls and Stone, and The Budgie Coleman band, the sun was shining, and the audience was great even though I forgot to switch one of my speakers on for my fist set !! DUH !
Headed home after this show, and we were getting ready for our USA friend bobby to be with us later that week, unfortunately he had a few health problems and had to
postpone his trip which was a shame for all of us.
Had a great time at Hopp’s Hillbillys festival at the same venue as Aiden J’s festival.
Into August now and Bobby had rescheduled his trip and arrived at Manchester on 2nd August, he came with me to a couple of gigs, when on the third one we got to Thorne Coronation club, only to find out I was double booked (agents cock up) so we had a night in and a few drinks.
Friday 8th took me down to one of my favourite venues Ex-Ranch in Exeter, Devon, had a great night, the dancers are great and dance to all my songs, which is nice to see that they can adapt and don't do one dance to one song, and from what I’m reading in a lot of the magazines now its what audiences are wanting, after all, as I’ve said before, why does everyone seem to do the same songs week in week out when there is 70 years worth of stuff to go at that are all danceable if the dancers will think about it and adapt, anyway it does seem now that generally people like to have something different to dance to, many thanks to Chris and Marika for putting me up after the gig, their hospitality was second to none.
From there I went over to another great venue, The Holford Arms in Gloucestershire, I love this place and Terry and Laura are great hosts, he’d set up a small marquee out the back of the pub, I was on with a guest band who only play together now and then, they were great, and a great night was had by us all…...I think the audience enjoyed it to !! After staying over there and having a nice Sunday lunch I headed over to Oxford to a new venue The Driftway CMC, nice to see the place packed, after I was told they didn't get that many in.
I had the pleasure once again of playing Uttoxeter racecourse as a double bill with Ronny J Morson, we did a spot each and one together, a great night indeed, then the following night we were together again at Leisure lakes in Southport.
So in between all the touring and local gigs I was still finding time to keep up my
exercise regime, and healthy eating, now graduating from swimming, to going to the gym as well (never thought I’d see the day!) and at time of writing (15th Oct) I have lost 2stone 4lbs and feel great for it too.
I had an almost clear week, in August so me and Laura decided on a short city break and found a great deal in Brussels going on the Eurostar, a super 4 day break for us.
Had an enjoyable time at Walesby festival sharing the stage with Cardy and Coke who did 2 great sets the first one being all original material, which was great.
Saturday 11th Oct I was on my way for 2 nights down south, when en-route the van problems raised its ugly head again ! And the alternator worked loose and the belt came off ! And can you believe the breakdown guy couldn't fix it ! As I was only 40 mins away from the venue my mate Wishy who runs a club came and towed me in, even though I thought the journey would kill me as he forgot with no engine running, means no brakes !! Anyway we made it, but I had to unfortunately cancel the following night in Kent as I know the alternator housing was broken and that wouldn't be fixed in time, after a day of hanging round on Sunday and more incompetence from green flag, they finally towed me home ! As I write this I'm just waiting for confirmation of a NEW van being delivered within the next few days, and the old one sits there waiting a
repair !! Or a ritual burning !!!
That's about all my news for now, and if you’re sick of hearing about my van problems, think how sick I am of having them !!
Have a great Christmas….and hopefully we’ll see you round the trail soon,
Jonny

Jonny Williams Newsletter May 2008

Hi All….Sorry again, this is so late, I’ve just been so busy these past few months its been unreal, not that I’m complaining, anyway we’ll start off in January with a rundown of what's been going on.
Good to report first of all that Kev is doing just fine at the moment after a scary time just before Christmas, he’s had more chemo during January and Feb, and is looking good !
My New Years eve gig was spent at Ellesmere commerades club, in Shropshire, where the right honourable Jeff Cliffson is now concert secretary ! Nice of him to get up and give us a few songs as well.
Since recording my last CD here in my studio I had a few enquiries from other artists about recording them, so ive had quite a few in since last year and in January I had a young lady reasonably new to the circuit Lynnette Marie, who did a superb job of classic country songs old and new, look out for her on the circuit.
Gig wise I was down to Whittlesy to Don’s club where a warm welcome always awaits with Richard and Charlotte, they run country music every Saturday night and bank holiday Sundays, last time I was there they got me quite piddled at the end of the night, and while we did sink a few after the night was over, Charlotte hoyed us out in good time ! Thanks for putting me up for the night, much appreciated as was the huge breakfast to see me on my way to Kent, for the next night at the Hover speed club in Manston, good to stay over with my mate Peter where we as always indulge in hours of jerry lee Lewis dvds ! This guy has every TV appearance of Jerry Lee ever known !
Following weeks it was a four night run in the north west, starting in Preston, thanks to Les and Sonia for putting me up that night, then on to Wrexham lager club, then to Dollgarrog to Paul and Barb from Rough Diamond duo’s club, where we had a great night despite the lousy weather, heading back over on my way home to play at Leisure Lakes in Southport Saturday night, for a night in my own bed, then me and Laura headed up to Scarborough for Steve Chases country weekend where I was appearing alongside the lovely Katie Rhodes, her and Laura got on great and we all had a superb night, thanks to Steve for having us both there we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves as always.
Jan 23rd had me and The Mercurys at the Midland in Sheffield doing our now twice yearly reunion gig, nice to see Dave Berry in the audience.
February I had made my mind up I just HAD to get my new CD started on, as it was now twelve months since my last one, and I had all my new songs I wanted to do in place. We had MaryJean and her daughter Anna over to stay with us for the second weekend in February, Anna was living here and loves the UK but she’s since gone back to Nashville to finish her education before she comes back to live, We took them to North Scarle club in Lincolnshire a club I’ve loved playing since I first started out...it was a great night, as we had Lynette Marie doing a few songs in my break, and MaryJean got up and did a few duets with me that we recorded on “Our Way” CD 2 years ago now ! Cant believe its that long since we met.
I started recording the new CD on the 11th February, and MaryJean kindly accepted my request for her to do backing/harmony vocals on it when I’d finished it, so that week I got my vocals put down, and then me, Laura and Sophie shot off to Spain for a week in the sun….was superb we had a great time , saw some good artists, and drunk some good drink ! After returning we all had the worst colds we’ve ever had ! With bad throats, chests and generally feeling dreadful ! Mine developed into sinusitis as it often does with me, and I had to cancel a couple of gigs when I got back as my throat was shot to bits, I was pretty peeved at this because was really looking forward to my gig at Leisure Lakes with Ronny J Morson, however we will be playing together again later in the year at Uttoxeter.
I managed to get a bit better by the second week when I headed down to Oxford for a one off club night at Headington, really enjoyed myself, after leaving there I headed off to Dorset to Sandford Park, for a Tony Best week of country music, I arrived about 2.15 am, found my caravan and got some well earned sleep !
When I got up in the morning it was round to John Astons van for a cuppa and and a catch up !
Saw the lunchtime set by Kalibre who are a superb, after they finished I was told where to set up, and to leave room for West Virginia who would be arriving later.
I went back to my van and got my feet up, I was just dozing off, when Tony Best rang the mobile, to ask if I could move my gear more centre stage, as I would now be appearing with Alan Westwood and John Aston, I asked what had happened to West Virginia………..they had gone to Norbreck Castle in Blackpool by mistake, (as Tony Best runs another 2 weekends there) they’d got it into their heads that’s where they were playing !!
Anyway as it turned out we had a good night and only one person complained that there was no “band” .
Middle March and I drafted in my mate Dave Young to come and put some fiddle on the new recordings, MaryJean and Anna had come back over as well to put backing vocals on too, that done and MaryJean and Anna having done their parts (thanks so much girls, you were great!) I just had to add acoustic guitars then mix the whole thing, I left it a week as my head and ears were still very bunged up !
Headed out for another 4 nights over in Lancashire great to see Les Payne and Sonia again.
Back home and finished the CD and the artwork (thanks Alan for the front cover!)
I decided on the title being “Sing Me Back Home” as its one of my favourite songs and (obviously) its on the CD and one most people are familiar with.
Im happy with the outcome and think its one of the best albums ive ever done, whether you do or not...that’s up to you !
I was pleased to bits when it was nominated Album Of The Week on BBC Radio Sheffield’s “Your Country” Its on sale at gigs or via my website at www.jonnywilliams.co.uk and you can even hear clips at my new Myspace site at www.myspace.com/jonnywilliamscountry (thanks to Anna for setting this site up for me!)
Last week in March and I did an afternoon session at Walesby festival, then headed over to Suffolk to another Tony Best event at Gunton Hall where I was playing on Thursday (nothing like being early!)
We got settled in and saw the last set by Kalibre before hitting the hay for the night, John and Anne Aston were in the chalet next to mine and Laura’s, and speaking on behalf of John and myself, we would like to apologize publicly to Anne and Laura for us both keeping them awake with our snoring !!
Tuesday I had the bright idea of using the resorts amenities so me and Laura decided to try out the fast tan sun beds….only a quid for three minutes ! Never been on one before…..and I went on for 12 minutes and almost baked myself to death ! There were no warning signs up, saying 3 minutes was the maximum you should go on for ! and by Tuesday night I had a face like a smacked arse !!
A few pints of guiness cooled me down, and I was happy to jump onstage when Henry Smith called me up to do a few numbers with his band “Country Dreams” to give his throat a rest as he had the dreaded bug !
Wednesday night we left Gunton to play at Kings Lynn at Runcton Holme Social club, not many people in im afraid.
Back to Gunton where I did my evening sets alongside the superb “Diesel Cowboys” Then myself and Laura headed over to Cambridge where I played at Manea Club on the Saturday, followed by The Riverside at
Stowmarket on the Sunday, then headed back home after a full and busy week.
Beginning of April and another new artist Deno Smith from Scunthorpe came over to do a CD at 14 years old I was very impressed at such a mature voice, look out for him too...another one with a great future in Country music.
Mid April I did a new venue to me at Gate Helmsley near York, I was sharing the bill with a new band to me called “The Lovesick Cowboys” I was very impressed by them and loved the material which on this occasion was 99% Hank Williams songs (as that’s what they’d been asked to do) although they do play others too, this must be the first gig ive ever done where I didn’t sing any Hank songs at all...thought I best leave it to them.
All members of the band are quite young (compared to most of us old farts !) and the lineup is double bass, lap steel (played standing up!!) lead vocals/guitar and young Daisy on fiddle….I was really impressed with the standard they did Hanks songs to, and would urge any bookers to book them especially as a change from some of the done to death overplayed dirge that acts are churning out week after week…..this is REAL country music, I for one will be looking out for them again.
Played a new club just starting in Swinton near Mexborough Bow Broom WMC, nice club, decent area too, and a car park, see the country mags for details, really friendly people, but a little organisation within the
committee wouldn’t go amiss the compere/bingo caller didn’t have a clue.
Had a really enjoyable night at Tattershall country park again as always, I love this club, Julia does a great job filling in for Terry and the audience and dancers are great proving that you don’t need one song to one dance...thanks guys you restore my faith !!
The last weekend in April had me heading south again to Kent to a club ive not done in a couple of years, and one I nearly never made it too this time ! As I was on the M1 at 11.45am the boys in blue pulled me in for a routine inspection by the vehicle inspectorate (VOSA) the found a small problem with the back spring on the van and almost made me go home...issuing me with a prohibition notice. it should have been with immediate effect, but they were most charitable and deferred it till Monday when I got back home,all the work has been done and im now legal again !
The Kent gig went well despite being a little low on numbers, however the people and the audience that were there were great,
Sunday had me at definatley one of my number 1 clubs for performing at, The Stourborder CMC held at Nayland Village hall, near Colchester, Run by John, Chris and Roger as always the bend over backwards to make sure the artists is happy with everything, they feed you give you drinks...and generally make you feel part of the family, the audience are second to none, and the dance floor is full all night with linedancers, partner dancers and jiggers !!
Thanks for having me again guys will look forward to my return in 2009

That’s about all the news for now…….I’ll try and get another newsletter out by July/August …
Thanks again for you’re continued support, see you round the trail….
Jonny

Jonny Williams Newsletter October 2007
Hi All,
Welcome to Octobers Newsletter…...I might get another one in before Christmas….but don’t hold your breath !
Well autumn is well and truly upon us, and the summer festival scene behind us for another year. I’ll start off where I left off with the last newsletter, which was mid July, I was up in the North East to do what should have been an afternoon and evening gig, the afternoon one was to be at Witton Castle (not the great north festival) which I was booked for by Nashfeel artists (N.A.M) however the festival didn’t go ahead, would have been nice to have been informed by them that it wasn’t going ahead, I heard from another artist 3 weeks before! Anyway the evening gig was at Brandon ol’ Opry, which has now closed, but the group have moved to another club in the same village I believe, so good luck to them with the new venue.
Me and Laura had a few days break in Goathland where they film Heartbeat, had a nice time despite the miserable hotelier ! We then headed over to Winterton on sea near Hemsby to play the Hermanus honkytonk, run by Jeff gallant (of the Jeff Gallant band) a great club, along with the honkytonk angels, Haley and her assistants ! who wait the tables serving drinks….. a real nice touch Jeff has handed over the running of the club to Haley as he is getting busy with his own band and hasn’t the time to commit, we had a great time and were really well looked after by them.
Into August now and my first time at Chew Valley CMC near Huddersfield, a superb little club, that has, westerners, line dancers and listeners all under the same roof getting along just fine ! So nice to see these days ! I really enjoyed my time there.
The following night off to St.Bernadettes in Scunthorpe where Les Payne came along and did the middle spot with me, nice to see a good number of people in tonight.
I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with another real country artist the following week at Uttoxeter racecourse for the heart of England festival, Ronny J Morson, he like myself sticks to the traditional side of country music, we did a spot each then about an hour together, which was totally un-rehearsed as we didn’t know we were playing together till we got there, it worked out fine and we picked a selection of songs that we both knew and had a real ball……...looking forward to working with him again in the near future. I stayed overnight then headed on to Jack Slades in Leicestershire, a little low on numbers (quite a few were at the festival) but non the less a most enjoyable night with Jack and Jan.
The bank holiday weekend is usually a busy one for me with festivals, but this year I had nothing at all, so we headed up to my folks place for the weekend and went to see Phil from Sunset trio who lives 40 minutes away to get some more tattoo work done on my back, we were saddened to learn that the previous night the band had decided to call it a day and split up, which is a real shame as they were one of the top true country bands, and my personal favourites. They will be sadly missed on the circuit.
September was a really busy month starting off at Sams Place in Kessingland in Suffolk, a great night there, then headed over to Whittlesey to Dons club, were I was staying with the owners Richard and Charlotte, after the gig, when everyone had left, the three of us sat at the bar where I was plied with Jack Daniels (not that I took much persuading!) and we headed back to theirs where I got my head down, and headed off the next morning after a great breakfast to Kent and to my mate Peter Checksfield’s were we again got through a million Jerry Lee Lewis dvd’s ! Then off to the Hoverspeed club in Manston, stayed over at Peter’s then headed out next day to The Wharf pub in Grays Essex, before making the journey home.
Nice to get back to the Victory club in Breaston, Notts, Nev who runs the club is a great guy, unfortunately he is up against a neighbour from hell about the noise from the club, so attention had to be paid when I was performing that I wasn’t too loud as he is on a final warning from the council ! I really do not understand miserable sods who buy a house near a pub or a club and expect it to be quiet ! Remember I told you about the professional whiners who sit in front of the speakers at gigs then moan about the volume...they must be the same ones who buy houses near clubs...just to moan, and the nickname me and Laura have got for these people now are
“M.O.B’s” standing for Miserable old buggers
Anyway enough of them for now ! After a great night as always at Cades County in Shireoaks, we headed up to Stillington in the North East to see Angela and the gang including of course the
inimitable Mad Kath who we thought wouldn’t be there as her and hubby Ged were going on
holiday….but the were there and as always made the night ! Thanks for having us, looking forward to seeing you there next year.
After one night off I had a run of 7 gigs in 6 days starting local at Thorne Coronation in Doncaster, then on to the Wellington oak in Pocklington near York, was great to see Roger and Anne Mitchell there who used to be the owners of The Ship Inn at Shiptonthorpe where I played on a regular basis when they ran it, they then moved away 4 or 5 years ago so I hadnt seen them in ages.
Next I was over at the Black Horse in St.Helens, always loved this little intimate venue, but, now with a change of landlord, who seems to have let the low life’s and druggies in, it wasn’t a very
comfortable atmosphere, and I know Ian who runs the country nights was less than happy ! I heard they have now moved venues to the police club in St.Helens so good luck to Ian and the gang.
Stayed overnight at MaryJeans at the pub she lives at, just a few miles away so was nice to see her again, and after lunch I headed off to Fleetwood, not done the RBL in a few years so was good to be back, nice friendly folk and a good atmosphere, following day I headed over to Leisure Lakes at Southport, and after last time, I was dreading it, but it was completely different ! Had a great night and the new DJ Stewart plays only country music, so was good to meet him. I stayed over there and
following morning after Fred shouted me breakfast I shot off to Birchwood for an afternoon show. I enjoyed the gig and was great that Laura and Kev and uncle Tony had driven over to spend the day with me knowing I might be flagging a bit ! ! Must say the staff behind the bar and at the cafe in Birchwood are some of the rudest, ignorant people I have ever come across.
So after that gig and us not being able to eat there (another story!!) we found a great chippy in Lytham that even made us all a cup of tea while we waited, service with a smile!
After the meal, we headed for Blackpool to Hampton road club, got set up there for the three sets, had an enjoyable night and a nice 10.30pm finish so got back home for 1a.m
A few nights off, then over to near Great Yarmouth to Potters Leisure resort where I was booked to do the opening spot in this fantastic complex, it’s a huge theatre/dance hall, top of the range sound system, 2 video screens that you are projected on during your performance, this was run by Mervyn Futter and Ann Carmody from Scotland over 800 people there and I was well looked after, after my spot it was a band from Scotland called Broken Wing, then from Ireland the Helen McCabe band.
After breakfast next morning I went back to the chalet to shower before leaving for the next gig, I just got out of the shower when there was a loud knock on the bathroom door !! “how long you going to be?” came this booming female voice…”you should be out by ten” it was the maid come to clean ! I was stood naked praying she wouldn’t open the door !! I stammered “I’ll be five minutes” “sorry” rushed to get my clothes on then legged it !
Then off to Ramsey Fortyfoot in Cambridgeshire, a superb night there, really nice friendly folk too.
Headed back home after that gig for a few days off before another long run of gigs.
So on to September 28th, we were back at the Holford arms in Knockdown, Tetbury, Laura was with me this weekend as it was our wedding anniversary on the Saturday, had a good night there as
always, Terry and Laura who run it really are great and so welcoming, nothing is too much trouble and they give us a caravan for the night as we were heading to Oxford the next day, and a new venue to me, Woodstock social club, the place was packed, had a great night, nice to meet new people too.
After we packed up we had a long drive up to Skegness to the Richmond were I was on the next night, Kev and Pauline, Unlce Tony and Aunty Winnie were there for the weekend, we arrived at 4am, and eventually after a run in with security we were allowed to park up and get a few hours sleep before seeing Kev and co. in the morning. Saw Grandpa T Smith finishing his lunchtime set, then I loaded in and set up ready for the night, where I was on with Arizona Flame, a super night was had by all, then back to kev’s caravan for the night, before heading home next morning, and to get ready for the following night at Leeds Anglers club, after the Anglers it was back home for a few hours sleep, before I set off on my own down to Brean sands in Somerset, where I did Tuesday night at The Seagull, Wednesday afternoon at The Seagull, and Wednesday night at the Tavern, which was the venue I liked the most, good to see Roger and Anne had made the trip down there to see me as well before they headed off to Cornwall !! Along with Keith from Bernadettes who was there for the week, I worked with Longshot trio at the Seagull who were a great little band, and the duo Double Whiskey at the Tavern, Bob and Ron, great guys had a good laugh with them, hope to see them soon Drove home the next day, and had a nice evening off, before heading out again on Friday to Bradford to Range Riders, who had had a change of venues.
The Railway, their usual venue had been booked for a private function so they moved to Esholt social club for this evening, a nice little comfortable room, Thanks to Ted and Christine for a good night, and glad the problem with the sh*@t stirrers in the club is sorted out. It’s a long story and I wont bore you with it here, but I really do wish people would get their facts straight before they go wading in causing trouble !!
The following day me and Laura headed off down to Shropshire to Ellesmere comrades club….and every performers nightmare came true upon setting up to soundcheck……...one of my speakers was blown ! I can only think it happened at Brean because I had cranked the speakers up a bit because it was a big room, I didn’t notice it at Esholt because the volume was quite low with it being a small room, but once they were pumping at Ellesmere nothing but distortion out of one of them…...trying not to panic I got on the phone to Jeff Cliffson, who, although now retired I hoped he still had his gear, as I though they may be coming to see me that night like him and Joan usually do, he told me he’d sold his gear, but to leave it with him for 5 minutes, he called me back and Phil and Anne who bought the gear would bring it over for me ! As it happened they were having a day out in Liverpool, and dropped everything to come to my rescue, Jeff, Joan, Phil and Anne...I can’t thank you enough, you really did save my bacon thanks a million.
My next problem was what to do about the following days gig, which was Pontins at Pakefield (near Gt.Yarmouth) for an afternoon show, so I rang Tony Gallant, the promoter, and told him my
problem, and did he think anyone may lend me some gear, he said it should be OK and to leave it with him, a few minutes later is nephew Jeff Gallant (who I’m friends with anyway) rang to tell me he had heard the news, and he was on that night playing, and he uses the same speakers as me ! So he would leave one there for me to borrow, which was really good of him, Thanks a million Jeff !! That’s TWO Jeff’s come to my rescue in two days !
So after Ellesmere we helped Phil load up, and me and Laura set on the long drive to Pakefield which took us 4 hours 45 minutes without a stop (she still refuses to learn to drive ...I wonder why ??) when we got there security was on the gate and I hoped we weren't going to have the same hassle that we did at the Richmond in Skegness the week before, I told him I was appearing the next day, he took my name and went to his office, and came out with a chalet key, I was over the moon because I thought we’d be sleeping in the van that morning. I had asked Jo and Tony if they could sort me a chalet for the Sunday night a week ago, thinking I would get they key Sunday afternoon, but they left it at the gate for me, which as you can imagine was so welcoming to have a bed to sleep in after the drive. Thanks again to Tony and Jo.
I did two spots in the afternoon, along with Dean Austin, we had a great afternoon, both playing to full dance floors for our two sets each.
Packed up and loaded the van, showered and ate….and got ready to sit and relax at night to watch the evening show after such a busy week, covering over 1,600 miles and 20 hours onstage since Friday 28th Sept– Monday 8th Oct. I was ready for relaxing !
Before the evening show started we bumped into the Haley’s, Jo-Anne and Becky and of course Brian, we hadn’t seen them since we first saw their wonderful sets at The Bridlington Country
festival, so it was nice to catch up before they went on, thoroughly enjoyed there sets along with John C King, Kevin Barry, and Gary Gamble from Ireland, who was most entertaining ! I make no secret that I am not a Daniel O Donnell fan, but this guy did a “tribute” to him, went off stage came on with the suit, the wig, the lot….looked like him from the distance we were at, he had the
mannerisms and patter down to a tee, and sung just like him, very impressive and I believe he’s only 26 years old, superb band backing him too.
Just as we were leaving, , and an old feller said to me….”you know what...I don’t think that was Daniel O Donnell you know” he didn’t seem to believe me when I said it wasn’t meant to be REALLY him !!
Well that’s about all for now, been great to see you round about, take care, and look forward to
seeing you somewhere along the trail soon
Best Wishes
Jonny

Jonny Williams Newsletter July 2007
Hi All,
Welcome to July’s newsletter, glad to say I’m on time with this one since the last one at the end of March.
April got of to a great start with 2 evening spots at one of my fave festival of all, Pontins at Pakefield, Lowestoft, where I always have a great time and get well looked after by Tony Gallant and his partner Jo, the new CD “City Lights” sold very well indeed thanks to Jo for running the stall !
The following Friday I was up at Pat Garrets round up in Boldon at Blue House Farm….what a place, a huge barn with concrete floor, patio heaters dotted around the place to keep it warm, excellent 2 level stage (one for the bands one for the solo’s/duo’s so we don’t have to mess about falling over each others gear) and most of all the fantastic bar !! Everything was either £1.00 or 50p !! I was once again on the bill with top North East band, Little Rock who were great as usual, a very enjoyable evening indeed.
Then it was Saturday and Brigg Town FC, where Jeff and Anne Langton run one of the best little country music venues around, filled to capacity as usual, and always an excellent atmosphere, Jeff joined me onstage with some of his groupies to sing an acoustic version of “Things” ..well done Jeff
The following night was Easter Sunday, and North Wingfield WMC in Chesterfield, never a very good atmosphere and a bingo orientated club, luckily the High Noon gang make it bearable !
Easter Monday I had been looking forward to for some weeks as it was time to do Pickering festival with my Band “The Rednecks” unfortunately Tim Howard who was to be playing pedal steel and banjo for me pulled out on the day due to illness, so I was left with no steelie which is a crucial part of the bands sound but luck was in store when Mick Ford turned up with his band and he volunteered the services of his steel player, for which I was entirely grateful. John Grindy from Sutton on sea took one look at my set list and said I know most of the songs the others I’ll pick up…..and he sure did ! He did a grand job, thanks John for saving the day ! We had a great spot and I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the day and night, especially with it being my favourites Sunset Trio, followed by Little Rock, two contrasting styles of country music bringing the festival to a superb close.
The following weekend I headed South for a memorable night at Edenham village hall near Peterborough, hosted by Dave and Sue, always a good crowd and super audience, then off to Manston in Kent where I spent the day with my old mate Peter Checksfield, were we overdosed on Jerry Lee Lewis DVD’s most of the day before heading out for the gig.
Back home and Tuesday to Top Valley in Nottinghamshire, sadly the club has since closed its doors to country music due to lack of support (no it wasn’t me that closed it before you say it !! ) The following night I did a charity night with Dave Bryan in aid of cancer support at Walesby, this was run by Tom McGuire who runs the cancer support place in Warsop along with his wife, though not very well supported we did manage to raise some much need funds for them.
Headed South again the following weekend, good to see Phil and Jean and the gang at Manea BL in Cambridgeshire, then off to Colchester to Nayland Village Hall run by the legend that is John Spooner and his band of helpers, as I have mentioned before, a great, thriving, welcoming club, always full to capacity which is always good to see these days, always a pleasure to play for them.
The downer of the month had to be Leisure Lakes at Southport the following week where I died on my arse...if I didn’t die...I was certainly in intensive care! No applause, no feedback, no nothing ! Just one of those nights.
Pleased to say the following night at Widness Rec club was great and really enjoyable as always.
Into May and I was heading further South this time to an area I had not done before which is always interesting, I did a club in Portsmouth, , run by Tommy Lee, a really welcoming friendly place, though sadly lacking in numbers, and has been for quite some time, the fact they are not allowed to advertise in the magazines due to various reasons may be a major factor !
Then over to Exeter in lovely Devon, to Ex-Ranch, again a really friendly place and thankfully packed to the rafters by 8pm.
While standing at the bar a writer from Southern Country magazine came over to introduce himself, Chris Davey was his name, we hit it off immediately, as we share the same taste and views regarding country music, him and his wife both dance and teach dancing…...to country music….praise be !!!! Great to meet them, and cant wait to go back next year.
The following night I was to be in Lowestoft in Suffolk, so that was one heck of a drive through the night to get there, I stopped to sleep after just over four hours of driving, and set off again in the morning and took a leisurely drive over and had a look round town before getting ready for the gig, an enjoyable night , and nice to see Tony Gallant and Jo in the audience, drove back home to Sheffield afterwards for a well earned rest, until the following night where I was local in Long Eaton in Nottinghamshire at Wishbones club, always a good atmosphere here to and a well run club.
After 3 days off, I headed west over to Wrexham lager club, where Jeff and Joan Cliffson ran their club before Jeff retired, nice to see a good sized crowd in tonight, I spent quite a bit of time on the phone during the breaks talking to my daughter Sophie who had a gig of her own that night, she is the drummer in this band and they had made it through to the semi finals of a Battle Of The Bands competition, glad to say they made it through to the final which I am glad I will be able to attend. The following morning I headed off to Dollgarog near Conwy a club run by good friends of mine the duo “Rough Diamond” Paul and Barbara are great hosts and despite numbers being down a little we had a great night. I spent most of the day with them putting the world to rights before heading over to Lancashire and Our Lady Of Lourdes club in Farnworth.
Sunday and I was at St.Bernadettes club in Scunthorpe once again, and had a great night with special guest Les Payne doing the middle spot with me on drums and harmony's, which he did superbly…..looking forward to working together again soon.
The following week I was at Oswestry festival sharing the bill with (you guessed it…)Little Rock !! The festival has grown quite a bit since the very first one I did five or six years ago, this year they even had a sound crew laid on who were very nice and helpful, but they didn’t quite get things right regarding the sound, and it was quite a struggle to hear myself onstage, when I asked for a bit more….I got a lot more and it about blew my head off ! But we muddled through and I did enjoy my stay there and met some great people like Granpa Tony Smith and his good lady Marilyn who did me a cracking bacon and mushroom buttie in the morning !! Thanks guys.
Into June now, and we were asked to do a charity night at Sheffield’s Bellhouse road club which we agreed to as it was local and the chance of a get together, sadly it wasn’t advertised very well at all ! But Phil Steel, Buddy tribute The HollyDayz , and myself with a band consisting of Chris Bell from the Rednecks on lead along with Chris Firminger on lead, John Firminger on Drums and Graham on bass, and myself on vocals/guitar proceeded to let rip and enjoy the night, we were really privileged to be joined by Jerry Lee’s niece, MaryJean so we were able to perform some of the songs we recorded on our duet album “Our Way”. Talking of MaryJean, I’m glad to say thanks to the hard work of Country Routes magazine’s owner Irene, who has secured some great gigs for MaryJean, you should get the chance to see her somewhere near you in the future, so if you like you’re country music pure, yet feisty then look out for MaryJean, im sure you will appreciate her wonderful voice and talent.
Headed over to the Queens club at Barton on Friday 15th June where I shared the stage with local lass Carolann B who I have known for years, so was good to have two Yorkshire folk sharing the bill ! We had a great night, and this club is one of the best there is. Myself and Laura soon had our high spirits taken away from us when we returned home to find the back yard completely flooded and the water over the weather rail on the back door, needless to say the kitchen and music room were flooded ! We worked all night with the help of Kev and Pauline who came up as soon as we called them, and I must say Sheffield city council were great as they arrived within 40 minutes of me calling them with sandbags to divert the water away which by the time it got light we managed to do, thank God only the carpets were ruined and nothing else. We’re just about straight now, however as I write this (June 25th) Sheffield is having the worst floods on record, and the river again runs through our back yard, just hope the sandbags keep in at bay and pray it doesn’t get worse…...as Johnny Cash sang…”How high’s the water mama…..its 2 feet high and rising.
Middle of June and a few nights in the North East, good to see Pat who runs Shotton colliery club, just could do with a few more bums on seats !
The following night and up to the Hitchin’ Rail in South Shields, run by Heather and her merry gang of helpers, great club despite the stairs, which this night to me was well worth the carry up (and thanks to Jen and Al for coming to help) as just before my second spot they presented me with their “Artist Of The Year” award 2006, to say I was gobsmacked is an understatement !! Many thanks to all the voters !
Saturday did a new club to me in Crook Co. Durham, the gang at the cricket club were great and really friendly, look forward to seeing you all again soon.
That’s about all the news for now, enjoy the summer….if we ever get one, thanks for all you’re support and we’ll see you around the trail soon
Jonny

Jonny Williams Newsletter April 2007

Hi All,
Welcome to the first newsletter of 2007, January and February were a little quieter than usual, but took advantage of the time off by recording a new CD (more about that later) and had a weeks holiday in Spain.
Glad to say the van problems just before Christmas were sorted out by Mick as always, turns out it was a broken wire on the immobiliser which after him spending quite a bit of time diagnosing it saved me a fortune by not giving up and making me take it to the main dealers ! He did well considering he’s not an auto electrician !
First Gig of 2007 was at The New Birley Club in Leeds, it’s a good club, friendly, decent sized dance floor and very reasonable bar prices, they deserve more people supporting it really, that said there was a decent crowd in this night which was nice. It runs every Sunday night.
Two listening venues the following week, the first being the R.A.F.A club in Newark,
always a good night here and the audience are great giving you full attention all night, followed the next night by York CMC, a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
The Friday and Saturday I was over in Lancashire at the Ghostriders in St.Helens run by Jean and Alan a good sized crowd in tonight and some new faces so I was told which is always nice, the following night I was up the road in Bolton at what used to be Rumworth labour club, now after a complete refurbishment re named Rumworth hall, the place was packed out, which is great to see these days as we here so often of clubs closing due to lack of support.
One of my favourite clubs “The Red Bandana” in Pelaw run by Big Syd Thomas sadly closed its doors before Christmas so that was a Friday booking I lost out on, but Syd being Syd, managed to find a new club, albeit running on a different night, but I was glad to make the trip to the new club in Pelaw. After the gig Laura and myself stayed over at my mum and dads as we had arranged to meet Phil the lead singer of Sunset Trio in Middlesbrough the following morning where he works as a tattoo artist, he got to work on my new one which is a portrait of my hero Jerry Lee Lewis, which now sits proudly on my right shoulder opposite Hank Williams ! Laura even plucked up the courage to have a small tattoo on the top of her right arm, she had been wanting one for ages, then bottled it when we got there, then changed her mind back again (woman's prerogative I guess!) so she’s happy with hers, there are some pictures on the website at www.jonnywilliams.piczo.com
Phil did a great job and is working on the design for the next one, its just getting the time when he’s not working and I am free too !
The following Saturday we went up to Blackhills at Consett again this club is run by Big Syd, a decent night if not the most responsive audience in the world, though after just finishing reading blue comic, Roy Chubby Brown’s biography. I had a great night, this was one of the first clubs he played when he started and had the curtains closed on him, so he stepped out in front of them and carried on his act…...then they switched the microphone off on him !
Last year I bought some studio recording equipment just to help rehearse new material, and maybe do the odd demo, however over the past few months I had been adding to it, and
decided to record my next CD here which I did in January the title is “City Lights” which includes the song with the same title, amongst others such as “Ring Of Fire” “If You’re gonna do me wrong , do it right” I’ll Sail My Ship Alone” “My own Kind Of Hat “ a total of fourteen songs.
Feedback so far has been very good indeed and I’m very pleased with the results.
At the end of January I had a phone call from Lynn Macdee telling me that Mac had suffered a stroke, those of you that done know Mac as a solo artist will know him as the lead singer in the duo “Stateside” I’m glad to say he’s doing well and has just started back on the road after almost 3 months off. Myself along with Keith Borrill from Ashby CMC in Scunthorpe
organised a benefit night for him just to raise a few quid to help him out while he was off the road (yes folks...we pay tax and national insurance...but can never claim a penny for time off on the sick)
Prior to the gig myself and Laura had a visit from Les Payne and Sonia, I had seen Les a few weeks before back behind the drums with a new band “Desert Wind” I was amazed to see and hear him play with one foot and one hand!! And NEVER missed a beat ! He has had his electronic Drum kit adapted so he can play with his left foot and left hand. I had mentioned the benefit night to Sonia while watching Les, and she said it would be great if me and Les could do something together again…..which is just what I was thinking too, so I asked Sonia to bring the drums with them and I’d leave it to her to mention to Les as I didn’t want to put him on the spot when they came over, we had some lunch then I asked Les if he wanted to have a jam with me, which he did, he was great as ever, after some persuasion he joined in with some harmonies, bear in mind we hadn't played together in two years, and it was just like we’d played last week together, he was spot on, so I asked if he’d do my spot with me at the benefit night, which he agreed to, and we had a blast !! It was great and now we have a couple more shows planned later on in the year together, so its absolutely great to have him back !
February came and went without much excitement really, until the last week me and Laura booked a cheap late deal to Benidorm, the weather was great and the drinks cheap ! So we had a good time just chilling out and relaxing and drinking more that we should have ! Saw some good live acts out there….and some pretty dreadful ones too….that said the audiences were pitiful too, so you cant expect the artist to perform to his best ability when nobody but nobody cares a hoot if you are onstage or not!
March came all too soon and the gigs were now in full throttle again, after celebrating my 40th birthday with my family it was down to the Lazy acre CMC in Shrewsbury run by the king of country music holidays Mr Tony Best I was playing with the ever popular Swing Commanders, superb night and the audience are the best in the world. The benefit night took place on the March the 9th and was very well attended many thanks to Travis Logan, Whiskey Under The Bridge, and Gary Haynes for agreeing to come and play.
Back over to Tattershall country park, if you remember my last news letter I told you about Mr Sound check? The one who sits in front of the speakers then complains its too loud….well...I had a different one this time on the other side, however he did move to the back of the room when I politley told him I was not turning it down (it was practically inaudible at the back as it was).
I was going to a club in Sunderland for the first time the week after, when I got a phone call from the guy who runs it a week before saying someone in the club said they wouldn’t be able to dance to my type of country….and could I change my act to suit them !! Well, after telling him no I couldn’t and I wouldn’t anyway and that I’d neve

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