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Recollections - Entertainment Clubs and Discos Recollections 101-200 |
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Links to other pages Recollections 1-100 Recollections 201+ |
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Recollections |
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| 101 |
Frank Ferri |
The Carnaby Set |
| 102 |
Frank Ferri |
The Carnaby Set |
| 103 |
Maureen Wallace |
The Berkley |
| 104 |
Mike Marwick |
Radio Bands from the 1960s |
| 105 |
The Pali Top Rank Club Top Storey Club Magoos |
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| 106 |
Bill Anderson |
Tiny and the Titans |
| 107 |
David Welsh |
Encyclopaedia Boston Dexters The Athenians and The Beatstalkers |
| 108 |
Jim McGregor |
The Berkeley |
| 109 |
Jim
McGregor |
Grafton Club |
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109 Reply 1 |
Grafton Club |
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| 110 |
Frank Ferri |
Boston Dexters The Athenians The Beatstalkers |
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110 Reply 1 |
The Beatstalkers Seven Singles |
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| 111 |
Jim
McGregor |
Penthouse, Bandwagon, Chase |
| 112 |
Bruce
Welsh |
Three's A Crowd |
| 113 |
Stuart
Lyon |
The Athenians |
| 114 |
The Scimitors |
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| 115 |
Gordon
Rule |
Pied Piper Café |
| 116 |
John
Cairns |
Lads from Bedford Street |
| 117 |
Frank Ferri |
Dancing - Advert in the Press, 1960s |
| 118 |
The Athenians |
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118 Reply 1 |
The Athenians |
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| 119 |
Frank Ferri |
Trad Jazz, 2011 |
| 120 |
Charles
Bowler |
International Club Tandem Mimics Showband |
| 121 |
Gordon
Mackett |
Top Storey |
| 122 |
Toto McNaughton |
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| 123 |
Frank Ferri |
Empire Theatre - The Crew Cuts Palais de Dance - Ray Ellington |
| 124 |
Lina |
Fayne & The Cruisers |
| 125 |
Fayne & The Cruisers |
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| 126 |
Norma Cullen Sinclair |
Fayne & The Cruisers |
| 127 |
Allister Hughes |
The Mimics Show Band |
| 128 |
Neil Macdonald |
East Fountainbridge High Street Lothian Road |
| 129 |
Allister Hughes |
The Mimics Show Band |
| 130 |
Frank Ferri |
The Berkeley |
| 131 |
Tony Brown |
The Place Food |
| 132 |
Patricia Gallagher |
Sneaky Pete's |
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132 Reply 1 |
Stewart Connelly |
Sneaky Pete's - Answer: Nips o' Brandy |
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Patricia Gallagher |
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132 Reply 2 |
Sylvia Rennox |
Sneaky Pete's - Answer: The Blue Blanket |
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132 Reply 3 |
Stewart Connelly |
Sneaky Pete's - Answer: Nips o' Brandy The Blue Blanket - It was in Canongate |
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132 Reply 4 |
Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge and London, England |
Bill Smith 'The Keyhole' The Charts Old Musician Friends Revolution Sneaky Pete's |
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132 Reply 5 |
Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge and London, England |
'The Keyhole' photos Recent Photos |
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132 Reply 6 |
Hi Bill |
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132 Reply7 |
Edinburgh Bands |
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132 Reply 8 |
Other Bands Still Playing the Drums |
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| 133 | Now renumbered as 132 Reply 1 |
Sneaky Pete's - Answer: Nips o' Brandy |
| 134 |
John
Gray |
East Fountainbridge - The White Elephant - The Muscular Arms Lothian Road - Pipers |
| 135 |
Neil
Lawrence |
Sneaky Pete's |
| 136 |
Frank Ferri |
White Elephant |
| 137 |
Mike Crean |
Boston Dexters The Crusaders 1970s |
| 138 |
Angela
Downie |
Clubs outside Edinburgh |
| 139 |
Ian Kennedy |
The Sapphires Venues Remember Us? |
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139 Reply 1 |
The Sapphires |
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| 140 |
Bob
Jenkins |
The International Club |
| 141 |
Allister Hughes |
The Mimics Show Band |
| 142 |
'Edinburgh Gig Archive' web site |
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| 143 |
Simon Clegg |
Coasters Roller Disco |
| 144 |
Ian Young |
Saunders Street Concert - 'Writing on the Wall' |
| 145 |
Malcolm
Robertson |
Found under the Floor Boards |
| 146 |
Margaret Burns |
Afternoons - Oasis Club Evenings - Franco's or The Iron Trap |
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146 Reply 1 |
Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge and London, England |
The Keyhole - Playing at Oasis Club |
| 147 |
Norrie Bishop |
Dance Hall, opposite McGoos |
| 148 |
Robert Laird |
Casablanca Disco |
| 149 |
John Alexander |
Casablanca Disco Plastic Meringue Plastic Meringue Reunion |
| 150 |
John Alexander |
Plastic Meringue |
| 151 |
John Alexander |
Ealy-1960s - Bungies - Other Clubs and Cafés |
| 152 |
Lynda
Wright |
The International Club - The Owner - My Dad - Manager and Bouncers - Bands |
| 153 |
Barry Sinclair |
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153 Reply |
Maureen Hogg |
Barry Sinclair |
| 154 |
Frank
Ferri |
Jimmy Cruickshank |
| 155 |
The International |
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| 156 |
Stuart
Davie |
Three's A Crowd |
| 157 |
David KING |
Fire Island |
| 158 |
Liz TORRES |
The Roccio Family - Christmas - The Shop - The Nash |
| 159 |
James ALEXANDER |
Clouds |
| 160 |
Ghoulz |
Bands at Kinema Ballroom Dunfermline |
| 161 |
Christie ('Mama Christie') |
Robert 'Smiggy' Smith |
| 162 |
Janette Burden |
Sanders at McGoos |
| 163 |
Alan Guthrie |
'The Images' 'This and That' The 1960s Newspaper Cuttings Book |
| 164 |
Harkness Club Dolly Dagger Other Clubs |
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| 165 |
'The Reflections' Band Members |
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165 Reply 1 |
Lisa McDonald |
'The Reflections' |
| 166 |
Stuart
Lyon |
Uptown Disco |
| 167 |
Chris
Selby |
The In-Between |
| 168 |
Bob Leslie |
Gig at Fairley's |
| 169 |
Bob Leslie |
Paper Dream - Our Players - Our Music - Bay City Rollers - Stan Wallace |
| 170 |
Bob Leslie |
McGoos Top Storey International Club Harness Bar Touring Scotland Heavy Rock London and Glasgow |
| 171 |
Gerry
O'Connell |
Club near St Giles - Name? |
| 172 |
Club near St Giles - Bungies |
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| 173 |
Gus Coutts |
Club near St Giles - Bungies |
| 174 |
Gerry
O'Connell |
Club near St Giles - Bungies |
| 175 |
Derick
(Dex) Hannant |
Where are you now, Robin |
| 176 |
Sharon
Shepherd |
Pete Seaton Band - Jimmy Robertson RIP |
| 177 |
Margaret Williamson (née
Hay) |
TV - Six-Five Special |
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177 Reply 1 |
Dave
McKinlay |
Nancy Whiskey |
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177 Reply 2 |
Dot
Walker |
The Black Jacks |
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177 Reply 3 |
Dave
McKinlay |
The Black Jacks |
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177 Reply 4 |
Bryan
Gourlay |
George Marino Quartet |
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177 Reply 5 |
Dot
Walker |
John Macintyre |
| 178 |
Douglas
K Kerr |
Frisco's and The Caves Club Other Groups |
| 179 |
Kate
McDaid |
Frisco's Club |
| 180 |
Derick
(Dex) Hannant |
Sinky - Robin (Robert) Sinclair |
| 181 |
Lisa McDonald |
'The Reflection' 'Maxi's Taxi' |
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181 Reply 1 |
Freddie White |
'Maxi's Taxi' |
| 182 |
Go Go Dancers |
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182 Reply 1 |
Go Go Dancers |
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| 183 |
Malcolm Finlayson |
Caves Club: Opening Night |
| 184 |
Margaret Williamson (née
Hay) |
Stevey Hay RIP |
| 185 |
Margaret Williamson (née
Hay) |
Stevey Hay RIP |
| 186 |
Mike Borys |
Caves Club - Opening Night Frisco's |
| 187 |
Mike Borys |
1960s and 1970s Suits and Boots After the Performance 'The Bandura' Cafe Mobile Disco |
| 188 |
Mike Borys |
Cafes Hairdresser |
| 189 |
Tommy Robertson |
DJs The Place Nicky Tam's |
| 190 |
Tommy Robertson |
Mad Hatman Discos Events |
| 191 |
Mike Borys' Recollections |
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| 192 |
John Fitzsimmons |
Musicians and Bands - 1960s to 1980s - Today |
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192 Reply 1 |
Ian Smith |
Jonny Fitz & Memphis Road Show |
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192 Reply 2 |
Ian Smith |
Hamish McGregor Memphis Road Show Cars Other Musicians |
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192 Reply 3 |
Mark
Wallace |
Jonny Frazer |
| 193 |
John Fitzsimmons |
Telstars Keeping in Touch |
| 194 |
Mike Crean |
Goldenacre Cafe Beat Group Practise Juke Box The K'Neins The Partisans |
| 195 |
Brian Alexander |
The Yellow Carvel Shifting Steel |
| 196 |
Norma
Allan |
Bob Bertram - Memorial Book |
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196 Reply 1 |
Graham Ferguson |
Bob Bertram Poems and Songs |
| 197 |
Nicky Tams |
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| 198 |
McGoo's |
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| 199 |
The Edinburgh Music Scene Howff tae Hip Hop |
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| 200 |
Diaries July 1966 Groups The Kinks |
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Recollections 101. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Frank Ferri's band in Edinburgh in the mid-1960s was 'The Jokers'. Here, Frank explains what happened to the group. Frank wrote: |
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'The Carnaby Set' formerly 'The Jokers' "The Jokers split up and were re-formed as The Carnaby Set in 1966. The line-up of The Carnaby Set then was (left to right): - Johnni Laidlaw (lead guitar) - Unknown (bas guitar) - Derek Hodge (drums) - Charlie McDonald (rhythm guitar) - ** The group only lasted just over a year before packing up for good. Johnny Laidlaw went solo as a cabaret act under the name of Johnny Rainbow, before moving on to become Entertainment Manager on passenger liners." Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: January 31, 2011 ** = and Frank Ferri, vocalist. See below. |
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Frank Ferri Frank Ferri tells me that he continued to be vocalist and band manager after The Jokers re-formed as The Carnaby Set. (The photo above of Frank was taken about ten years earlier.) Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: February 8, 2011 |
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Recollections 102. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Frank Ferri added: |
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Fairley's "I took this photo from the car park of what is now Giuliano's Italian restaurant. Then (1966) it was known as 'Fairley's of Leith'. 'The Carnaby Set' They did cabaret shows and dancing at the time. We were resident there for a spell. On the day this photo was taken, we had been rehearsing in the afternoon In the background is "Kings Wark" pub next to the derelict building now "Pizza Express." |
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Water of Leith "You will note how low the water in river is. The Water of Leitht must have still been tidal then, before docks lock gates built at Leith Harbour. |
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: February 8, 2011 |
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Recollections 103. Maureen Wallace Rosyth, Fife, Scotland |
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Thank you to Maureen Wallace for replying to the message about The Berkeley from Kenny Bell in 'Recollections 60'. Maureen wrote: |
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The Berkeley "I was just reminded of the Berkeley on Lothian Road after watching Reggae Britannia on channel 4 tonight. The Berkeley was at the bottom of Lothian Road. I went there a few times in the early-1970s with my friend, Christine, as it played nothing but West Indian imports on a juke box wired to speakers. We were 2 little white teenage girls in a mainly black dance club treated with nothing but respect and loved to dance. There was nowhere else like it at the time. Everyone clicked their fingers when dancing so you could dance to the beat with the clicks." I aways remember Christine had a little MGB GT soft-top in those days , and we travelled all over and went out dancing regularly to most of the clubs in Edinburgh and Fife. The Berkley was a place that had a few name changes in the 1970s. I don't recall exact date it closed. I would have been about 19 at the time. Maureen Wallace, Rosyth, Fife, Scotland: February 12+13, 2011 |
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Recollections 104. Mike Marwick New Town, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Mike Marwick, who wrote: |
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Radio "I've worked in radio for around 40 years, including, in Scotland: - SAGA. - Smooth. I still deliver a weekly programme at 6pm on Saturdays, under the title 'Rock & Roll Saturday'. It's broadcast via broadband from Fife on Celtic Radio to a host of stations, including: - Heartland. - Celtic Music. - Radio Glasgow. - Leith FM. - Argyll FM. 'Rock & Roll Saturday' has its own facebook page." |
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Bands from 1960s? "In the past, 'Rock & Roll Saturday' has included Scottish bands from the 1960s: - Athenians - Studio Six - Avengers - Golden Crusaders - etc. When I included these, back in the SAGA days, the response was instant. There was local contact and enthusiasm, and copies of rare 45s by Edinburgh/Glasgow bands were sent in to me, to be broadcast on the programme. I would be happy to hear from anyone who has any old records of Scottish bands from the 1960s. Mike Marwick, New Town, Edinburgh: February 9, 2011 |
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Reply to Mike If you have any old Scottish band records from the 1960s, or would like to contact Mike with any other messages about the 1960s scene, please email me, then I'll pass on his email address to you. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: February 16, 2011 |
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Recollections 105. Gerald J Robertson |
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Thank you to Gerald J Robertson who wrote: |
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The Pali "My first experience of disco dancing was at the Pali on a Saturday afternoon. I was 12. I am now 61." |
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Top Rank Club "I went to a disco in South Clerk Street. It was part of the Odeon Cinema and was known as the Top Rank Club. The resident band that I can remember was Jimmy James and the vagabonds." |
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"There was a band that played regularly at the Top Storey Club. They were called Tiny and the Titans. Who did they become? Prize: a fourpit oh tatties. lol." |
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Magoos Questions "I went to Magoos in the mid-1960s. I am trying to remember what the name of the club was across the road from Magoos, down one of the side streets. It was not up to much. As I recall, it was in a cellar. I lived in Magoos at the weekend. On holiday weekends, you used to get a rubber stamp on the back of the hand so that you could go out to feed up at the chippie just past the Tron gate. What was the name of the disco above the chippie?" |
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Gerald J Robertson: February 25 + 26, 2011 |
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Recollections 106. Bill Anderson Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Bill Anderson who replied to Gerald J Robertson's comments about the Top Storey Club in Recollections 105 above. Bill wrote: |
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Tiny and the Titans "The band, Tiny and the Titans, played around 1967/8 and in around 1968 changed their name to Reflections. Reflections went on to appear In Opportunity Knocks in the early 1970s. Colin Chisholm ended up being the lead singer in Bilbo Baggins who were the other band managed by Tam've added t Paton." Bill Anderson, Edinburgh: March 6, 2011 |
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Recollections 107. Bruce Welsh |
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Thank you to Bruce Welsh who wrote: |
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Boston Dexters "I am presently writing an encyclopaedia of 1960s UK groups. Groups being included in this book are those that had at least one single out between 1962 and 1966." |
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Boston Dexters "On another web site, I saw John Turnbull mentioned as having been with the Boston Dexters before he and fellow Dexter Tam White went on to form The Buzz. But John is not mentioned by Frank Ferri on this page on the EdinPhoto web site about the Gonk Club at Tollcross. I wonder if Frank remembers John Turnbull." |
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The Athenians and The Beatstalkers "I am also seeking information on The Athenians and The Beatstalkers who are going to be included in the book. Does anyone know anything about these bands?" |
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Bruce Welsh: March 10, 2011 |
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Reply to Bruce I have passed on Bruce's question about Boston Dexters to Frank Ferri. I don't know whether or not the other two groups that Bruce mentions ever played in Edinburgh. If you have any information that you'd like to pass on to Bruce, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to him. Thank you. Peter Stubbs: March 13, 2011 |
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Update Frank has now replied. See Recollections 110 below. Peter Stubbs: March 15, 2011 |
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Recollections 108. Jim McGregor Caledonia, Ontario, Canada |
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Thank you to Jim McGregor who replied: |
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The Berkeley "The Berkeley became two different spots in the late-1970s / 1980s: - Upstairs: Harvey's Restaurant - Downstairs: Piper's Cabaret Both were run by the late Brian Waldman and Peter Williamson, Edinburgh's main man at the time." Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada: March 13, 2011 |
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Recollections 109. Jim McGregor Caledonia, Ontario, Canada |
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The Grafton Club at Tollcross was last mentioned by Eric Gold in Recollections 81. Here, Jim McGregor tells a little more about the club Thank you to Jim who wrote: |
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The Grafton "I knew the people and the scene in Edinburgh in the 1970s and 1980s pretty well. I remember Peter Williamson. He was a very nice man. The Grafton Club would have become The Penthouse, run by: - Tam Hughes and - Jim Logan My understanding of those times is that Peter Williamson would have been associated with: - Victor Gold (bookmaker) - Buggy Thomson (businessman) and - John Paddy Reilly (JPR), an extremely well known businessman" |
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Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada: March 13, 2011 |
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Recollections 109. Reply 1. Stewart Dickson |
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Thank you to Stewart Dickson who added: |
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The Grafton Victor Gold "Victor Gold is mentioned in Recollections 118 above. Victor managed 'The Grafton' for Peter Wiliamson, and cut a record with a band called 'The Graftonites'. Toto "The band's drummer was non other than Toto. The 'B' side of the record was an instrumental - 'Toto's Blues'. " Stewart Dickson: June 28, 2012 |
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Recollections 110. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Frank Ferri who replied to Bruce Welsh's questions in Recollections 107 above. Frank wrote: |
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Boston Dexters "I knew former members of the Boston Dexters: - Tam White - Toto McNaughton (deceased) - Frankie Connors (living in London) but I can't recall John Turnbull. |
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The Athenians "The Athenians were a brilliant band at covering Rolling Stones' music. They were resident for a long time at the Gamp club on Victoria Terrace, before splitting up. - Ian Orr was vocalist - Ally Black was on bass. I can't recall the names of the others. They cut a record. I remember that one track was Chuck Berry's 'Little Queenie'." |
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The Beatstalkers "I remember the Beatstalkers, but not the line up. They were Edinburgh-based." **
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: March 14, 2011 |
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Recollections 110. Reply 1. Stuart Prentice Lanark, South Lanarkshire, Scotland |
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Thank you to Stuart Prentice who wrote: |
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The Beatstalkers "Despite the comment above that 'The Beachstalkers' were from Edinburgh, I know the band very well and I just wanted to let you know they came from Glasgow. They were a great band. - Singer: Dave Lennox. - Keyboard: Eddie Campbell. - Guitar: Ronnie Smith. - Bass: Alan Mair. - Drums: Trudge Williamson - replaced by Jeff Allen." Seven Singles "The Beatstalkers made seven singles on the Decca and CBS labels. You can get a CD of all seven plus two demos and a live DVD of their 2005 reunion gig. What a great night that was!" Stuart Prentice, Lanark, South Lanarkshire, Scotland: May 25 + 26, 2015 |
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Recollections 111. Jim McGregor Caledonia, Ontario, Canada |
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Thank you to Jim McGregor for writing again. Here is an extract from the message that Jim sent to me: |
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Penthouse, Bandwagon, Chase "I grew up in Gorgie and spent many happy years in some fine pubs and clubs. Most notable, in those days, would be the Penthouse in Tollcross and Bandwagon in Frederick Street. The Penthouse, Bandwagon and Chase nightclub in Bonnyrigg were all owned by a partnership of individuals who had worked for the bookie, Harrower, and had received some time at Her Majesty's pleasure. Upon their release these three premises were all born." |
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Jim McGregor, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada: March 15, 2011 |
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Recollections 112. Bruce Welsh Victoria, British Columbia, Canada |
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Thank you to Bruce Welsh who wrote: |
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Three's a Crowd "I'm trying to find information about a group called 'Three's a Crowd'. All I know is that they were a trio to begin with, then a quartet. Bob Smiggy Smith was their lead vocalist. He had previously been with The Embers. The group had one single out in 1966 'Look Around The Corner’ b/w ‘Living In A Dream'. Apparently their bass player, Jimmy Bain, is still playing today. Does anybody know of them? Bruce Welsh, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada: April 4, 2011 |
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Reply to Bruce? If you know anything about this group, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Bruce. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: April 7, 2011 |
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Recollections 113. Stuart Lyon Blackford, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Stuart Lyon for replying to the question that Mike Marwick asked in 'Recollections 104' above. Stuart wrote: |
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The Athenians "Ally Black, who I believe played lead guitar in The Athenians, now owns the Shapes Furniture and Auction business here in Edinburgh." Stuart Lyon, Blackford, Edinburgh: April 9, 2011 |
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Recollections 114. Stuart McAlister |
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Thank you to Stuart McAlister who wrote: |
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The Scimitors "I used to live at 182 Boswall Parkway. We had a ban called .The Scimitors' in the 1960s. Pet Elison was the guitarist, and we practiced in the hall of St Margaret Mary's Church in Boswall Parkway." Stuart McAlister: April 13, 2011 |
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Recollections 115. Gordon Rule Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Gordon Rule who wrote about his memories of Pied Piper Café. I originally added Gordon's memories to this page on the Edinburgh Clubs and Discos section of the web site as 'Recollections 115'. However, I've now decided that it would be better to include them on the Cafés and Restaurants page of the web site, so I've now moved them there as 'Recollections 50'. Acknowledgement: Gordon Rule, Edinburgh: April 13, 2011 |
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Recollections 116. John Cairns South of France |
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Thank you to John Cairns for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook. John wrote: |
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Lads from Bedford Street "Does anyone remember a bunch of lads from Bedford Street, Stockbridge? They were all friends of Ned Munro who, in turn, introduced them to me. They were a fantastic bunch of lads. We visited the Palais, in Fountainbridge, and the Top Storey Club with them. I spent New Year 1964/65 with them. I'll never forget them." John Cairns, South of France: Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book: April 17, 2011 |
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Recollections 117. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Frank Ferri wrote: |
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Dance "Here is an advert that appeared in the press, in the 1960s."
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: April 20, 2011 |
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Recollections 118. Brian Waugh |
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Thank you to Brian Waugh who wrote, regarding 'Recollections 110' above: |
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The Athenians "The Athenians' line-up was: - Ricky Alcorn Bass Guitar - Ally Black Lead Guitar - Keith Henderson Rhythm Guitar - Arthur McKay Drums - Ian Orr Singer" |
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The Beatstalkers "As far as I can remember, 'The Beatstalkers' were a group from Glasgow." |
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Brian Waugh: May 11+16, 2011 |
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Recollections 118. Reply 1. Stewart Dickson |
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Thank you to Stewart Dickson who replied: |
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The Athenians "Ricky Alcorn worked with me a while ago at the Council. He was involved with Energy Management, if I remember correctly." Stewart Dickson: June 28, 2012 |
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Recollections 119. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Frank Ferri wrote: |
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Jazz NIght "We have arranged another big jazz night, for June 17, 2011, Tickets are on sale at the bar, Leith Dockers' Club. Here is a poster for the event."
©
Reproduced with
acknowledgement to Frank Ferri,
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: May 9, 2011 |
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Recollections 120. Charles Bowler Cape Town, South Africa |
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Thank you to Charlie Bowler who wrote: |
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International Club "I remember the night the Nash (The International Club) burnt down. I was playing there that night with a band called 'Badge'. We played on the top floor and the place was packed, even on the stairways. It was definitely a fire hazard!!" |
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Tandem "Do you remember a band called 'Tandem', one of Tom Paton's bands?" |
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Mimics Showband "I joined up with two of the guys, Alan Paterson and Brian Flockhart, in 1974 to form the 'Mimics Showband'. We went on to win 'Search for a Star' in 1975. Tom Paton was one of the judges! The "Mimics" went on to UK and international success." |
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Charles Bowler, Cape Town, South Africa: May 15, 2011 |
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Recollections 121. Gordon Mackett Leith, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Gordon Mackett for posting this message in the EdinPhoto guestbook: |
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Top Storey "I've just been reading the recollections of the good old days in swinging Edinburgh. I was at the Top Story when the Pretty Things played, and the crowd flicked lit ciggies at the singer. Happy days!" Gordon Mackett, Leith, Edinburgh: Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book: May 17, 2011 |
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Gordon subsequently posted this correction in the EdinPhoto guestbook. |
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Correction Them "I got the group at the 'Top Storey' wrong in the message above. In fact the group was 'Them' and the singer was Van Morrison." Gordon Mackett, Leith, Edinburgh: Message posted in EdinPhoto guest book: May 19, 2011 |
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Recollections 122 Jimmy Tennant |
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Thank you to Jimmy Tennant who read of the death of the musician, Toto McNaughton in 2008, and replied: |
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Toto McNaughton "I have just learned of Toto McNaughton's passing, and I am so sorry to hear of such bad news. I first met Toto back in 1954, and I immediately liked him. He was a real riot and friendly with everyone. Our meeting was because of our National Service time. We spent our basic training in The Royal Scots and signed on together for an extra year. We joined the battalion in Egypt. Our service time was spent in Egypt, Cyprus and Home, but most of it was active service. I can honestly say that Toto kept his humour all through the good times and bad. He really was a fun-loving character, and I have many fond memories of him. There' are just too many stories to put on an email. Bless his memories. I'm pleased to say that I was one of his good friends." Jimmy Tennent, May 26, 2010 |
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Recollections 123. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Frank Ferri for sending me two signed photographs, one from the 1950s and the other from the 1960s. Unfortunately, the copyright will not have expired on these photos, so I cannot add them to this web site. However, I'll mention them below. The photos were of: |
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Empire Theatre The Crew Cuts "I got my signed photo of 'The Crew Cuts', a 1950s Canadian trio, when they appeared at the Empire Theatre, Edinburgh in the mid-1950s.. Charting songs then were 'Sh-Boom' and 'Earth Angel'." |
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Palais de Dance Ray Ellington Quartet "I got my signed picture of the Ray Ellington Quartet in the late 1950s when they had a short residency at the Palais De Dance, Fountainbridge. Ray made several appearances in the old 1960s 'Goon Show' radio program with Peter Sellers, Harry Secombe and Michael Bentine" |
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: May 26, 2011 (2 emails) |
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Recollections 124. Lina Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Lina for posting this message in the EdinPhoto guest book. Lina wrote |
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Fayne & The Cruisers "I'm looking to see if anyone has any photos of 'Fayne & The Cruisers'. They were one of the top bands in Edinburgh in the 1960s. I would be grateful if anyone has anything at all" |
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Lina, Edinburgh:
Message and email address posted |
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Recollections 125.
Margaret Ballentyne |
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Thank you to Margaret Ballentyne for posting this reply to Lina's message (above) posted in the EdinPhoto guest book. Margaret wrote |
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Fayne & The Cruisers "Colin Patterson, the drummer, is my nephew. He now lives in Spain; we do not know about the rest of the band. My wife worked with Wee Colin, Jimmy and Big Colin in the printers." |
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Margaret Ballentyne (née McGillivray): June 1, 2011 |
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Recollections 126. Norma Cullen Sinclair Newington, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Norma Sinclair for providing more information about 'Fayne and the Cruisers'. Norma wrote: |
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Fayne & The Cruisers "In answer to Lina's question about Fayne & The Cruisers, I met their singer Dave (I can't remember his second name) last night in Mather's Bar, Broughton Street, Edinburgh. That's his local bar and he apparently can be heard singing Karaoke some Friday nights! Small world, isn't it - we just popped in for a drink after a concert in the Playhouse" |
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Norma Cullen Sinclair, Newington, Edinburgh: June 10, 2011 |
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Recollections 127. Allister Hughes Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland |
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Thank you to Allister Hughes who wrote: |
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The Mimics Show Band "I, along with: - Alan Paterson (Musselburgh) - Brian Flockhart (Musselburgh) - Jimmy Marshall (Musselburgh) - Dougie Anderson (Edinburgh) founded The Mimics Show Band." |
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The Pentland Inn "We launched our first trial show at the Pentland Inn, Loanhead, where Alan Brian and I had been the resident band for some time initially starting there as a Country & Western Band (trying something new) with our then Drummer: - Robert McJimpsie (Elphinstone) We had all played in various bands previously. I am pleased to say our first show at the Pentland Inn was a great success and led to the official creation of the band under the management of Mike Keen of MK promotions, Edinburgh. Needless to say our time at The Pentland Inn was over almost overnight as we hit the road running. The band was virtually an instant success. |
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South Africa "I was Lead Guitarist, but left The Mimics in 1974 to emigrate to South Africa. My replacement was Charles Bowler. By coincidence, I met up with him some years later when the band had a gig at The Holiday Inn Johannesburg. I believe shortly thereafter Charles decided to remain there. It's a great country. Also, by coincidence, Gordon Smart (Tranent) was their then front man, Gordon having been a apprentice in the long gone Scott's Electronics, Edinburgh, where we both worked." |
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Musselburgh "I lived and worked in South Africa for 16 years, then returned to Musselburgh, only to be invited shortly thereafter to perform at The Brunton Hall, Musselburgh, as part of the Original Mimics re-founded on a once only basis by Jimmy Marshall for a special local charity event. That was quite scary as had never played guitar since I left the band all those years before, but like riding a bike it all came flooding back and turned out to be a great night, even though we had rehearsed over the phone with Brian, as he was then living in England and was only coming up on the night of the show." |
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Where are the Others now? "Dougie Anderson, I believe, emigrated to Canada. Alan, Brian and Jimmy, I believe, are still around, but I have since lost touch with them. In the event that they might read this some day, I wish them all well for the future and wish to thank them for providing me with the best time of my life." |
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Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland: June 25, 2011 |
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Reply to Allister? If you'd like to send a message to Allister, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to him. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: June 25, 2011 |
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Recollections 128. Neil Macdonald Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland |
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Thank you to Neil Macdonald who wrote, asking if anybody remembered some of the discos around Edinburgh in the late 1970s. Neil wrote: |
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East Fountainbridge "There was a disco/club either with entry from Bread Street or East Fountainbridge in the late-1970s. I went there a few times. It was a bit tiddly. I can’t remember what it was called, I do remember you went through glass doors, and then straight upstairs to it?" |
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High Street "Does anyone remember the 'Opposite Lock' in the High Street?" |
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Lothian Road "There was also a kind of American diner / bar downstairs from what is now 'Karma' in Lothian Road. It then became a disco with horrible tartan carpets. Again, any thoughts?" |
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Neil Macdonald, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland: June 21, 2011 |
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Recollections 129. Allister Hughes Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland |
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The Mimics Show Band Thank you to Allister Hughes for writing again. This time, Alister sent me a copy of an article published in the Musselburgh News, about 18 years ago. The article included a photo of the original Mimics from the 1970s, reformed for a charities concert as a tribute to Billy Nimmo, a professional footballer who had died the previous year. The group performed to a capacity audience at the Brunton Hall. |
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Acknowledgement: Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland: June 25, 2011 I'll try to seek copyright permission to include the photo mentioned above on the EdinPhoto web site. |
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Recollections 130. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Frank Ferri for replying to 'Recollections 128 above. Frank wrote |
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Lothian Road "What is now 'Karma' in Lothian Road might have been 'The Berkley'. It was just past Castle Terrace, and was popular with American servicemen stationed at Kirknewton in the late-1950s and 1960s, I played there in 'The Jokers' band around 1964." |
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: July 6, 2011 |
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Recollections 131. Tony Brown Southsea, Hampshire, England |
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Thank you to Frank Ferri for replying to 'Recollections 128 above. Frank wrote |
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The Place "I come from Northumberland and spent a lot of my childhood and my youth in Edinburgh, a wonderful city. As teenagers we drove up at night and went to The Place in Victoria Street. |
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Food "After 'The Place', we'd head for the Stockpot for something to sustain us. During daytime visits, we'd grab lunch at the Pied Piper. I never tire of Edinburgh. I've enjoyed all the nostalgia here." |
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Tony Brown, Southsea, Hampshire, England: July 9, 2011 |
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Recollections 132. Patricia Gallagher Australia |
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Patricia Gallagher wrote: |
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Question Sneaky Pete's "My friend and I recently passed a pub called 'Sneaky Pete's' at 73 Cowgate, and remembered going there in the 1970s when it was called something else. We can't remember the name though, and I just wondered if you would know how I could find out." Patricia Gallagher, Australia: July 10, 2011 |
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Hi Patricia. I see from the Internet that Sneaky Pete's in the Cowgate is now an underground disco. It opened in 2008. I've checked my Edinburgh & Leith Post Office Directory to see if I could discover what it was in 1970, but it's not listed there. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 10, 2011 |
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Reply? If you remember the name of 73 Cowgate, Edinburgh in the 1970s, please email me, then I'll pass on our reply to Patricia. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 10, 2011 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 1 Stewart Connolly West Highlands, Scotland |
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Thank you to Stewart Connolly for replying to Patricia Gallagher's question in 132 above. Stewart wrote: |
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Sneaky Pete's Nips o' Brandy "Sneaky Pete's used to be called 'Nips o' Brandy'." Stewart Connolly, West Highlands, Scotland: July 10, 2011 |
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Stewart: Patricia appreciated your answer, Stewart. She has just written: "Yes!! That was it. Thanks so much. It was keeping me awake!" Patricia Gallagher, Australia: July 10, 2011 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 2 Sylvia Rennox Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, Scotland |
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Patricia Gallagher replied to Stewart Connolly above, saying that the name that he had given for Sneaky Pete's was the one that she was looking for. Now Sylvia Rennox remembers another name for it. Sylvia writes: |
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Sneaky Pete's The Blue Blanket "Bill Smith of The Keyhole says: 'Sneaky Pete's was called The Blue Blanket' ." Sylvia Rennox, Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, Scotland: June 7, 2012 |
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Question I know that there was a Bill Smith in the group that went on to become The Corries; but who was 'Bill Smith of The Keyhole? Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: June 7, 2012 |
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Reply Thank you to Bill Smith of The Keyholefor replying on June 8, 2012. See 'Reply 4' below Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: June 17, 2012 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 3 Stewart Connolly West Highlands, Scotland |
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Thank you to Stewart Connolly for writing in response to the comment from Sylvia Rennox above. Stewart wrote: |
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Sneaky Pete's Nips o' Brandy "I only remember Sneaky Pete's as being known as 'Nips o' Brandy' - not 'The Blue Blanket' - in the 1970s. I recall 'The Blue Blanket' as being in the Canongate, not the Cowgate. There is, if I recall, a Blue Blazer pub in the Grassmarket." Stewart Connolly, West Highlands, Scotland: July 10, 2011 |
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The Blue Blanket Canongate or Cowgate Hi Stewart: Yes, John Lawson agrees with you that 'The Blue Blanket' was in the Canongate. In his message, sent to Canongate, Recollections 11 about a year ago, John wrote this about his grandad: "In the late-1930s or early-1940s, he and his wife moved from Chessels Court to 206 Canongate (ground floor, two doors down from the Blue Blanket pub and opposite the top of New Street)." John Lawson: July 11, 2011 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 4 Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge + London, England |
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After I received 'Reply 2' above from Sylvia Rennox, I emailed her and asked her: "Who was Bill Smith of the Keyhole?" Sylvia forwarded my message to Bill who replied: |
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Bill Smith "I now go under the name Bill Taylor Smith - sounds better (ha! ha!) I'm still playing and working with bands like The Who, etc, etc, - I now play and write with The Trevor Jones Band. - I used to play with so many bands in the past in Edinburgh. - In 1968, I played with The West End Soul Band, Memphis Roadshow and Keyhole." 'The Keyhole' "Keyhole played at the Oasis Club George IV Bridge, across from the Empire. It was a record shop and the club was upstairs. We were a 'teeny bop' band and were joined at the hip with The Bay City Rollers." The Charts "I have played in countless bands since then, and have enjoyed band and chart successes. I've got one in the charts just now!!!" Old Musician Friends "I have tried to contact a lot of old musician friends but unfortunately its ended up in heartache as they have all died - boy oh boy!" Revolution "I also played with a band called Revolution. We were a bit wild - well, a lot wild - but people liked that (ha! ha!)." Bill Taylor Smith, Cambridge and London, June 8, 2012 |
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Following up the question that was originally asked in Recollections 132, Bill added: |
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Sneaky Pete's "I seem to remember that Sneaky Pete's used to be called The Blue Blanket, but I could be wrong. It was down the Canongate, anyway." Bill Taylor Smith, Cambridge and London, June 8, 2012 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 5 Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge + London, England |
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Bill Taylor Smith wrote again on July 10, 2012, adding: |
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'The Keyhole' Photos "I'm looking for any old photos that people might have of our group, 'The Keyhole'. The group played at The Oasis Club in Edinburgh, 1968-70. Does anybody have any?" Recent Photo "Here is a photo of me taken at the BBC last week, just to prove that I'm still alive!" Bill Taylor Smith
Bill Taylor Smith, Cambridge and London, July 10+17, 2012 |
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Reply to Bill Taylor Smith? If you know of any old photos of Bill Taylor Smith (formerly Bill Smith) or of his group, 'The Keyhole', please email me to let me know, then I'll pass on the news to him. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 17, 2012 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 6 Dave Carson Kettering, Northamptonshire, England |
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Here, Dave Carson sends a message to Bill Smith (above) |
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Hi Bill "Hi Bill: Dave Carson, drummer. How are you?" Dave Carson, Kettering, Northamptonshire, England: October 24, 2012 |
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I've passed on Dave's email address to Bill. |
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Recollections 132. Reply 7 Dave Carson Kettering, Northamptonshire, England |
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I also received a second email, the same day from Dave Carson. Dave wrote: |
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Edinburgh Bands "I played in several bands in and around Edinburgh. Best known would be Truth, a three piece blues band with: - David Carson (myself) on drums - Tom Lochrie on six string - Eddie McGee on bass Mostly, we played at:
- The Place, Edinburgh and We supported John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers and Rory Gallagher at the Place along with several other headline acts. Dave Carson, Kettering, Northamptonshire, England: October 24, 2012 |
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Recollections 132. Reply 8 Dave Carson Kettering, Northamptonshire, England |
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Thank you to Dave Carson for writing again. Dave wrote: |
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Other Bands "Some of the other bands that Truth supported when they came to Scotland were: - The John Drummer Blues Band - The Edgar Broughton Blues Band - Pete Brown and his Battered Ornaments - John Hiseman's Colosseum - (and from America) Moby Grape Still Playing the Drums "I'm still playing drums and have recently started playing the cajon which is great fun. Dave Carson, Kettering, Northamptonshire, England: October 26, 2012 |
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Recollections 133. It has gone! I think this must have been renumbered and is now hiding somewhere amongst all the replies to 'Recollections 132' above. |
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Recollections 134. John Gray Stenhouse, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to John Gray for replying to 'Recollections 128' above. John wrote: |
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East Fountainbridge "Neil Macdonald asked about the disco on East Fountainbridge. It was probably either: - 'The White Elephant' or - 'The Muscular Arms'." |
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Lothian Road "Neil Macdonald also asked about the club in Lothian Road with the horrible tartan carpets. I think it was called 'Pipers', which kind of matches the tartan carpet description. If I remember, that was where they booked groups of tourists, especially Americans into the place which served meals and had show bands and pipers playing." |
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John Gray, Stenhouse, Edinburgh: July, 2011 |
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Recollections 135. Neil Lawrence Fountainbridge, Edinburgh |
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Neil Lawrence added (in response to the question in '132' above): |
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Sneaky Pete's
"Sneaky Pete's was
Nips o' Brandy in the
1970s. Neil Lawrence, Fountainbridge, Edinburgh: July 12, 2011 |
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Recollections 136. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Frank Ferri wrote: |
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White Elephant "The White Elephant was the old Palladium Theatre at East Fountainbridge." |
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International "The bar with tartan carpets at Lothian Road was owned by the former golfer, Ronnie Shade. Well, he was the front man, anyway, financed by a well known Edinburgh businessman, I say with tongue in cheek. I think it was called the International. It had great Motown music, played by a DJ in the 1970s. |
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Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: July 14, 2011 |
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Recollections 137. Mike Crean Dorking, Surrey, England |
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Thank you to Mike Crean for writing for replying to Bruce Walsh's comments in Recollections 107 above. Mike wrote: |
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The Boston Dexters "I knew the The Boston Dexters band: - Vocals: Tam White. - Guitar: Johnny Turnbull. - Bass Guitar: Alan Lancaster. - Drums: Toto McNaughton." The Grant Hardy Group "Frank Ferri mentions Frank Conner. However Frank had played with The Crusaders, then went on to form a sort of Edinburgh super group called The Grant Hardy Group, comprising: - Vocals: Jimmy Cruickshanks - Guitar: Frank Conner. - Guitar: Peter Bottomley - Bass: Jimmy Bain. - Drums: Alan Pratt." 1970s "The Grant Hardy Group were a great band, but short-lived. Jimmy went on to join The Partisans. Frank went off to the ocean liners. Peter also played briefly with The Partisans. Alan went on to play with many other prominent bands. However, Jimmy went on to gain fame and fortune with Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow during the 1970s."
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Recollections 138. Angela Downie (née Lancashire) West Mains, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Angela Downie, West Mains, Edinburgh, who attended Darroch School from 1959 to 1962, for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook. Here is an extract from Angela's posting in the guest book: |
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Clubs "I remember Saturday nights at the 'Green Light Club' at Viewforth Church Hall, and later at : - The Gamp,' - The Place,, - Top Storey, - The Cavendish'. In fact, my friend, Norma Ramsay, and I went out dancing almost every night of the week. Mostly, this was when we had started work."
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Recollections 139. Ian Kennedy London, England |
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Thank you to Ian Kennedy who wrote about his band in Edinburgh in the 1960s. Ian wrote: |
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The Sapphires "I've just seen the EdinPhoto web site. It's great, because I am from Edinburgh, but now living in the south. In the 1960s, I played in a band called The Sapphires." |
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Venues I've looked at all the items on the EdinPhoto web site and, horror, no one has mentioned us! Does anyone remember us? We wore dark red jackets and white trousers. I played drums! We played, sometimes twice a week, at: - The Gamp Club - Top Storey - Luna Park - The Palais, on a revolving stage with Ray McVey and his orchestra every Thursday! - Kirknewton American airbase. We were blessed with The McKinley Sisters who were on with us. They went down a storm with the Americans! I loved playing in Edinburgh, and sadly miss it! I left to go to London. I joined BBC as a Film Cameraman, and have been here ever since! In fact, I even met my wife, Jane Taylor, when I was playing with The Sapphires at the Gamp Club. We've been married since 1966 - still going!" |
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Remember Us? So come on folks. Who remembers us? I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers. Unfortunately, I'm not in touch with the other members of the band. Maybe, some of them may see this message. Does anybody know where they are? Who knows? It was the best and most fantastic time of my life and I'd love to see who remembers us. Some of you might have enjoyed our music. |
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Ian Kennedy, London, England: September 7, 2011 |
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Reply to Ian If you remember the Sapphires or know where any of the group are now, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Ian. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: September 11, 2011 |
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Recollections 139. Reply 1. Jim Paterson |
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Thank you to Jim Paterson who added: |
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The Sapphires Accident "I certainly remember 'The Sapphires'. My brother, Ian, was the lead singer. He was knocked down by a car in the early-1970s and died two years later." The Palais "I remember carrying his bag to get into The Palais for free, and being allowed to play the drums before the group went on" The Palais "I still have a copy of the records made by the group at EMI. If memory serves me right, Johnny Home joined the group at some point. I also remember Harry and Scott. Happy days!" Jim Paterson: November 21 2014 |
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Recollections 140. Bob Jenkins Mayfield, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Bob Jenkins who wrote: |
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The International Club "The International in Princes Street was owned by Jimmy Rossio. (I'm not sure if this is the correct spelling.) His nephew, Calvin Munro, owned The World's End pub in the High Street. I was one of the roadies with Reflection from 1967 to 1969, and we played the Nash almost every Saturday night. Usually, it was the last spot after a wonderful couple of hours playing the Top Storey!"
Bob Jenkins, Mayfield, Edinburgh |
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Recollections 141. Allister Hughes Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland |
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Thank you to Allister Hughes for writing again. Allister wrote: |
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The Mimics Show Band "Since my initial recent posting (127 above) I am delighted to say that I have managed to find, establish contact with and meet up with all but one of the original Mimics. My most recent contact was at a charity event, held at The Ship Inn, Musselburgh, where the Lancashire based band Kickstart were performing, fronted by: - Brian Flockhart (Bass/Vocals) - Alan Patterson (Drums) - other members of the Kickstart band." |
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Jimmy Marshall "In addition to enjoying the band I was delighted to be joined by Jimmy Marshall and some old friends from long ago in what turned out to be a great night." |
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Jimmy Marshall "I have also been in contact with Gordon Smart who confirmed that he is still part of he and The Mimics act - still on the go, some forty 40 on. It has turned out to be a small world." |
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Allister Hughes, Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland: September 22, 2011 |
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Recollections 142. Simon Swan Edinburgh |
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Edinburgh Gig Archive Thank you to Simon Swan for telling me about his Edinburgh Gig Archive web site, a site that covers gigs and venues in Edinburgh, mainly in the 1970s and 1980s. The site includes photos of venues, musicians on stage and copies of adverts and tickets for the performances. Here are a few of the venues mentioned on the site and a few of the musicians who performed there:
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All information above has
been taken from the
Edinburgh Gig Archive
web site, |
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Recollections 143. Simon Clegg Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
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Coasters Roller Disco Thank you to Simon Clegg for allowing me to reproduce this photo. Commenting on Coasters Roller Disco, Simon wrote: |
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Tollcross "This photo was taken as everyone was leaving Clouds Roller Disco at Tollcross, after a gig. This photo was taken around 1979. Clouds, Coasters, or The Cavendish Ballroom, in Tollcross was the venue for many concerts throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s, having been a popular dance hall since the 1940s. In its time, it was also known as Outer Limits and as The Network." Simon Clegg, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
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Recollections 144. Ian Young Hawick, Borders, Scotland |
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Ian Young wrote: |
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Saunders Street Concert 'Writing on the Wall' Question "Does anyone have any information about an open air concert held on the waste ground in Saunders Street, Stockbridge, some time after the old housing had been demolished (1968?). I can remember seeing Linnie Patterson climbing all over the stage scaffolding, presumably with 'Writing on the Wall' but have no idea of why it was organised or who the other bands were." Ian Young, Hawick, Borders, Scotland: October 25, 2011 |
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Recollections 145. Malcolm Robertson Sighthill, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Malcolm Robetson who wrote: |
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Found under the Floor Boards "I have been doing a bit of DIY in my house in Sighthill and under my floor boards I have found a wallet with lots paperwork in it dating from 1964. The wallet belonged to a man called George Laird from the Gracemount area. Within the wallet -there were: - A membership card for the PLACE JAZZ CLUB. - Some love letters from a woman called Sandra - Photos and negatives of different people and of 1960s cars. My dad thinks the photos were taken down at Portobello." |
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Where is George Now? "I would just like to know if anyone knows of or remembers this George Laird. I don't really know very much about the 1960s, as I was born in 1979, but it has been great finding out about that era. I'd just like to give these memories back to George, whoever or wherever he may be. He was an aerial rigger for Maitland Radio, Gayfield Place and his address was 50/11 Gracemount Drive. He should only be in his 60s now, as on the paperwork it says he was 19 in 1964. Maybe we'll find George, and maybe even Sandra." |
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Malcolm Robertson, Sighthill, Edinburgh: November 13, 2011 |
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Reply to Malcolm If you have known George Laird, or have any idea where he might be now, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Malcolm Robertson. Thank you . Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: November 14, 2011 |
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Recollections 146. Margaret Burns near Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland |
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Thank you to Margaret Burns who wrote: |
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Afternoons Oasis Club "Can anyone remember the Oasis Club, around 1970. It was opposite the now Festival Theatre and up the stairs above the now Indian restaurant. It was for the under-16's, and was on a Sunday afternoon, 2.00pm till 4.30pm. Local bands played there. Bay City Rollers were just starting out with Nobby Clarke as their lead singer." |
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Evenings Franco's or The Iron Trap "After this we went home, then in the evening our group went to Frisco's down Carrubbers Close, Edinburgh, or The Iron Trap, Musselburgh. I usually went with my friends to the Iron Trap as the bus was at 6.55 from the top of my road to Musselburgh and I met everyone on it. I was home for 10.30pm for school the next day. Happy days!" |
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Margaret Burns, near Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland: January 8, 2012 |
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Recollections 146. Reply 1 Bill Taylor Smith Cambridge + London, England |
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Thank you to Bill Taylor Smith ** for replying to the question that Margaret Burns' asked above about The Oasis Club. ** For further info on Bill Taylor Smith and his music, please see Recollections 132, Reply 4 above. Bill wrote: |
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The Keyhole Playing at The Oasis Club "I was the guitarist at the Oasis Club in 1968-70 with The Keyhole. I was then called Bill Smith, now Bill Taylor Smith. The other guys in the band were: - Alan Dunn (bass). - Davey Peirson (drums). - Kenny (singer). I've forgotten Kenny's second name. He lived in Liberton. Does anyone have any old photos of us? We were really popular and were always getting our pictures taken by the fans. The Manager and owner of The Oasis was Stuart Hepburn. He moved a few doors up the road and opened another music shop." Bill Taylor Smith, Cambridge and London, June 8, 2012 |
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Recollections 146. Reply 2 Irene and Mike Cuthbert Davidson's Mains, Edinburgh |
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'Thank you to Irene and Mike for replying to the question asked by Bill Taylor Smith in his Reply 1 above. Irene and Mike wrote: |
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Keyhole "Was the leader of Keyhole not Ken Stott? He's a famous actor now." Irene and Mike Cuthbert: January 14, 2014 |
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Recollections 147. Norrie Bishop Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Norrie Bishop for replying to a question raised just over a year ago by Jim Archibald, about the dance hall opposite McGoos. See 'Recollections 76'. Norrie wrote: |
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Opposite McGoos "The dance hall down the lane opposite McGoos was in what were the vaults, not unlike 'The Cavern' It was called either 'The Tempo Club' or 'The Temple Club'. The group that played there was 'The Dominoes'. One of the night, when we were there, Johnny Campbell joined them for a couple of numbers." Norrie Bishop, Edinburgh: January 14, 2012 |
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Recollections 148. Robert Laird Longstone, Edinburgh |
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Robert Laird wrote: |
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Casablanca Disco "I was browsing the site just now, looking at the Disco’s/Clubs contributions and saw only a few notes about the Casablanca Disco in Rose Street. I went there a few times, back in the late-1960s - an older lad who sometimes played in the same football team as me was a 'bouncer' there. Gus Thomson was his name, and a nod and a wink form Gus got me and my partner free admission. Ronnie McEwan, the brother of the lead singer with the Bay City Rollers was DJ at the club for a while, but he left for a better spot in a Glasgow Club and it was never the same after that." Robert Laird, Longstone, Edinburgh: January 16, 2012 |
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Recollections 149. John Alexander Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
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John Alexander was vocalist for the Plastic Meringue group in Edinburgh in the late-1960s. Thank you to John for sending the photos and comments below. Please click on any of the thumbnail images below to enlarge them and read the names of the members of Plastic Meringue |
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John wrote Casablanca "The Plastic Meringue were a regular feature at the Casablanca, playing there at least once a week and in some cases 2 or 3 nights, all through 1968 and early-1969. This advert for the Casablanca appeared in the Evening News on Saturday July 27, 1968. The Casablanca was one of our favourite venues, it was dark and had a great atmosphere. The crowd were usually complimentary to our brand of music (rock/blues) which was a bit progressive for Edinburgh then. Here are Plastic Meringue playing at Casablanca in 1968. John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia: January 22+24, 2012 |
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Please click on the thumbnail image above to enlarge it and read the names of the members of the group. |
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John added: Plastic Meringue "Here are two publicity photos of Plastic Meringue. This one was taken in winter 1967 at North Berwick Open Air Pool, with no water in the pool. This one was taken in 1969 at Musselburgh Sports Ground where we used to practice." John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia: January 22+24, 2012 |
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John Alexander travelled to the UK from Sydney, Australia, in 2007 and popped in to Edinburgh for a few days to catch up with family and friends. Bruce (bass) surprised him with a reunion of Plastic Meringue. The band - apart from Stewart (organist) who was in Spain on his Harley! had their reunion, drinks and a jam session, at the 'Black Boab' pub in Falkirk. Below are a couple of photos taken at this session. |
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John wrote: Reunion "Here is a photo of me at the reunion in 2007." "Here is a photo of John (Dinky) on drums and Bruce on bass at the reunion in 2007." John Alexander, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia: January 22+24, 2012 |
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Recollections 150. John Alexander Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
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Thank you to John Alexander for sending me another photo taken at the Reunion of members of the Plastic Meringue group in 2007. |
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Here is the latest photo that John has sent to me. In the photo are (left to right): - Bob Moyes lead guitar - John Alexander vocals - John Brown (Dinky) drums |
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1967 and 2007 I've included the photo above with two others in this panel showing members of the band in 1967 and at their reunion in 2007: |
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Please click on the two images above to enlarge them. |
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Recollections 151. Grahame Davis Christchurch, New Zealand |
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Thank you to Graham Davis for posting a message in the EdinPhoto guestbook. Grahame wrote: |
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Early-1960s "I love hearing of places that jog my memory of my teenage years in the early-1960s. Wonderful times!" |
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Bungies "I remember Bungies, being up royal mile off the Bridges on the left of street. My recollection is of 3 to 4 floors, Café on ground with upper floors with different music/bands on each floor on Friday and Saturday nights, 7pm to 7am. Great nights!"
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Other Clubs and Cafés "I remember: - the Gamp. Was it on the curved street going down from Greyfriars Bobby statue to the Grassmarket?
- Palais de Dance. I loved the Saturday afternoon sessions. They were very busy - full houses - great music of the times: "Papa's got a Brand New Bag" by James Brown - The Twist, a popular dance then: "Lets dance", "Twistin' the Night Away" and many more." - the Café / milk bar, one street up from Princes Street at the West End, with parked scooters outside. - my mate, John Millar (then a chef ). I'd love to make contact again." |
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Grahame Davies, Christchurch, New
Zealand. |
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Recollections 152. Lynda Wright Australia |
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Thank you to Lynda Wright who wrote: |
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The International Club The Owner "I've just read the comments above about the International Club. To answer a few questions: - Jimmy Roccio was the owner of the International Club. Yes, he was Italian but he was born and bred in Edinburgh. His first club was the 'Luna Park' in the High St - Originally, Jimmy had partners in the International Club, the famous Paddy Reilly and Peter Williamson. I'm not to sure how long that partnership lasted but It could not have been very long. - Jimmy Roccio owned the business and the building for many years and, yes, the club did eventually become Fire Island." My Dad "I left Edinburgh in 1968 for Australia and I am one of Jimmy Roccio's daughters. I have fantastic memories of the club. Between the ages of 16 and 18, I would have spend every night there, sometimes working the cash desk but mostly dancing." Manager and Bouncers "Can anybody remember Jimmy Fischer the manager and the bouncers Eddie, Merv and Mick. I can't remember all their names." Bands "Some nights there would be as many as nine bands playing, and people lined up four abreast to get in. These were some of the bands and performers: - Bay City Rollers, with Tam Paton and his usual bevy of girls. - Three's a Crowd with Bobby Smith (Smiggy). - The Hipple People. - The Beachcombers. - Writing on the Wall. - The Live Wires. - The In-Crowd from Glasgow. - The Moonrakers. - Ian Nicoll (I can't remember what band he was in.) - Jimmy Cruickshank (I can't remember what band he was in.) - the beautiful Linnie Patterson. - Jimmy Bain. - many folk singers that I just can't remember." "I'd love to hear from anybody from that time." Lynda Wright, Australia: February 11 2012 |
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Reply to Lynda? If you'd like to send a reply to Lynda, please email me, then I'll give you her email address. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: February 14, 2012 |
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Recollections 153. Jack Hawkins |
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Thank you to Jack Hawkins who wrote: |
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Barry Sinclair "Can you help? I'm trying to contact a friend who sung with my band, 'Jack Hawkins Band'. For a few years, he was called 'Barry Sinclair, Butch and the Bandits'. When he joined my band, I changed his name to Barry St Clair. Do you know where he might be?" Jack Hawkins: February 27, 2012 |
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Reply to Jack? Please email me if you thin you might be able to help Jack to find Barry. Thank you Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: February 27, 2012 |
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Update Please see 'Reply to Recollections 153' below |
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Reply to Recollections 153. Maureen Hogg Cape Town, South Africa |
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Thank you to Maureen Hogg who wrote: |
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Barry Sinclair "I see that Jack Hawkins has been trying to trace Barry Sinclair (Butch and the Bandits). I didn't know him but I think my brother Frank, who played with the Crusaders, knew him. I'm sorry to say that Barry died last year but I will try and find someone to contact you with more info." Maureen Hogg, Cape Town, South Africa: March 12, 2012 |
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Recollections 154. Frank Ferri Newhaven, Edinburgh |
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Lynda Wright mentioned in Recollections 152 above that she could not remember which band Jimmy Cruickshank played in. Here, Frank Ferri gives the answer. Frank wrote: |
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Jimmy Cruickshank "Jimmy Cruickshank was lead singer for The Embers. He was one of a few from the Ferranti electronics company in the 1960s. They, like The Saracens did a good interpretation of the Stones' covers. I knew them well in my days with the Jokers." Frank Ferri, Newhaven, Edinburgh: February 15, 2012 |
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Recollections 155. Mel Roccio |
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Lynda Wright, in Recollections 152 above, wrote about her Dad Jimmy Roccio, being the owner of the International Club in Princes Street. Now, Mel Roccio has written: |
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The International "Jimmy Roccio was my grandfather. He owned the International club on Princes Street, which opened in the 1960s. He later rented the building out and it became Fire Island. My dad, Sergio (Jimmy's son) came over from Italy, aged 5 in the early-1950s and lived in the Kirkgate with his dad and mum, Evelina." Michael's Café "Jimmy's parents, Mary and Michael owned Michael's Café in the Kirkgate." Recollections "Any recollections about the Nash, Michaels Café or any of my family members would be greatly appreciated!" Mel Roccio, March 2, 2012 |
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Reply to Jimmy Roccio If you'd like to send a message to Jimmy Roccio, please email me, then I'll let you know how to contact him. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: March 2, 2012 |
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Recollections 156. Stuart Davie East Lothian, Scotland |
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Thank you to Stuart Davie for replying to Bruce Welsh's comments in Recollections 112 above. Stuart wrote: |
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Three's A Crowd "Bruce Welsh asked for any information about the Edinburgh band, Three’s A Crowd from the 1960s era. Bruce might be interested to know that Alan Pratt (drummer) still appears around East Lothian with his Blues band. His band is The Alan Pratt Blues Council (Bass, Lead Guitar, Drums, Harp & Vocals). They make really good rockin’ (Blues) music. Three’s A Crowd were my Rock Gods as a teenager. I grew up in the Edinburgh area and picked up my first guitar in the 1960s. I haven’t put it down yet, and turned 60 this year." Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: March 2, 2012 |
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Recollections 157. David King Trinity, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to David King for replying to Mel Roccio's comments in Recollections 155 above. David wrote: |
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Fire Island "I was interested to read the contributions above, including those from relatives of Jimmy Roccio. As a frequent visitor to Fire Island in the 1980s, I met and spoke to Jimmy a number of times. He came along to the club every so often, although Bill Grainger, as I recall, was the promoter of the events. He was always very charming and pleasant. Among the acts in those days was Hazell Dean (who got on 'Top of the Pops' with ‘Searchin’) and Eartha Kitt. In truth, by that stage the premises were not in the best condition. The floor above was unoccupied and in winter it ‘rained’ with condensation off the cold ceiling. Punching holes in the ceiling for scaffold tubes to support the lighting rig probably didn’t help! If it got too hot, the windows onto Princes Street were held open with bar stools – presumably the sash cords had broken and not been replaced. But it was an excellent club with top class music, well-mixed (in the vinyl days when it was much more difficult) by the DJs who knew their game – Jimmy Tant and others – and a good night was had by all." Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: March 7, 2012 |
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Recollections 158. Liz Torres (née Russell) Melbourne, Florida, USA |
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Jimmy Roccio and his family have been mentioned recently in Recollections 152, 155 and 157 above. Here, Liz Torres also remembers the family. Elizabeth wrote: |
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The Roccio Family "In reply to Lynda Wright's Lynda Wright's comments above, I knew Jimmy Roccio very well, and also knew his mother. That would be Lynda's grandma. Christmas That old lady had class. She never celebrated Christmas as she lost a daughter on Christmas Day, but, every child up in Pirniefield Bank received a selection box from her - and no child ever went hungry. The Shop She lived in Seafield Avenue, but at the end spent more time at the back of her store. It was in her store that I first encountered a slot machine. I bought penny tokens, but never won. The Nash Jimmy Roccio used to let me into the 'Nash' at least twice a month for free. I think he had a book with a tally (LOL). He used to say: 'Behave yourself or I'll tell your mother'." Liz Torres (née Russell), Melbourne, Florida USA: March 17, 2012 |
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Recollections 159. James Alexander Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
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Thank you to James Alexander who wrote: |
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Clouds "Surprisingly, so far as I can tell, the EdinPhoto web site seems to make no mention of Clouds, formerly 1-2-3. In the 1960s, as The Premiers and 1-2-3, the group appeared at most of the clubs mentioned in the 'Clubs & Discos' pages on the web site. I hasten to add that I was not there personally." James Alexander, Atlanta, Georgia, USA: March 20, 2012 |
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Web Site and Quotes Thank you to James for his comments above, and also for providing a link to the Clouds Music web site and some quotes about the importance of the band, including Brian Hogg's comment in 'The History of Scottish Rock & Pop' (Guinness / BBC Publications): "Edinburgh's first truly pioneering act'" and Aidan Smith's comment to be published in The Scotsman (late- March 2011): "The most important and influential Scottish Rock band ever'" |
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Recollections Perhaps James' comments above might encourage some of the people who remember seeing Clouds performing in Edinburgh to send in their memories of the band and the venues where they played. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: March 21, 2012 |
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Recollections 160. Ghoulz Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland |
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Thank you to Ghouls for telling me about his research into the Kinema Ballroom in Dunfermline. The EdinPhoto web site usually covers only matters relating to Edinburgh, but there may well be some overlap between the bands that played in Edinburgh and in Dunfermline, so I've included Ghoulz' comments below. Ghoulz wrote: |
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Kinema Ballroom "After six years of research my KinemaGigs web site is still incomplete, not that I ever expect to complete it fully lol … but … So far, I’ve nailed info about 950-odd of the 1170-ish bands that played at the Kinema Ballroom in Dunfermline, but I still have 218 about which I know nothing at all! I guess it’s entirely possible that some of these more minor outfits that may have hailed from our fair capital." Ghoulz, Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland: April 4, 2012 |
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List of Bands Ghoulz has sent me his list of the 218 bands for which he is currently seeking further information. I'll not add the whole list to the EdinPhoto web site, but would be happy to provide a copy of the list and Ghoulz' contact details to anybody who requests it. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: April 7, 2012 |
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Recollections 161. Christie Virginia, USA |
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Christie (singer Mama Christie) contacted me today asking for information about Smiggy, the lead vocalist of Three's a Crowd who used to perform in Edinburgh in the 1960s Christie wrote: |
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Smiggy "I'm looking for Smiggy. In 2000, I recorded an album in his mountain studio in Sperryville, Virginia, USA. If you find him, please let me know." Christie, San Diego, California, USA: April 22, 2012 |
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Smiggy in Variety Show I've passed on the latest email address that I have for Smiggy, to Christie. Smiggy appears to be still performing. Christie sent me an advert for a Variety Show at Hearthstone School on March 28, 2012. The flyer for this show listed the main performers:
Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: April 22, 2012 |
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Recollections 162. Janette Burden (née Drinan) London |
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Janette Burden wrote: |
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Sanders at McGoos "Hi I have been all over the EdinPhoto site looking for a guy called Sanders who used to either dance with us girls or by himself to the great music played at McGoos in the 1960s and have seen his name mentioned as a Gamper. Could this be one and the same guy? I'd love to know if anyone else remembers him as he was a fantastic mover." Janette Burden (née Drinan): Gorgie then Broomhouse, Edinburgh, then London: May 7, 2012 |
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Reply to Janette? This is the page on the EdinPhoto web site that mentions Sanders at the Gamp. If you are able to answer Janette's question or know anything about where Sanders might be now, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Janette. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: May 8, 2012 |
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Recollections 163. Alan Guthrie Liberton, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Alan Guthrie who wrote: |
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The Images "I was surprised to see myself in these pictures of 'The Images' in the 'Edinburgh Clubs & Discos pages of the EdinPhoto web site. My pal from School, Douglas McKenzie, and I started up the group in 1965, called The Images. It went through a number of personnel changes and also went from being ‘pretty rank!’ to gaining some popularity in Edinburgh and then playing in Germany & Switzerland in 1967." This 'N' That "Later on in 1967, I left the Images and joined a group called 'This ’N’ That', but I finally hung up my microphone and called it a day in 1969." The 1960s "It was a really great time during that period in the 1960s, as the music was terrific and nearly every teenager wanted to be in a group. Clubs were everywhere, and almost every night ‘live music’ was playing all around the City: - McGoos - Friscos - The International - The Place - The Gamp - The Casablanca - The Top Storey - etc, etc. There were also numerous Youth Club dances every weekend. These venues all gave aspiring groups the opportunity to play their music and improve their performances, cheered on by their band of ‘groupies’ who followed them around." Newspaper Cuttings "Most of the Newspaper Cuttings were from The Edinburgh Weekly which was a good source for the 1960's Scene in Edinburgh." Book "For some time now I have been writing a book (fictional) on the experiences I went through during the time I was in a group. Now that I have retired I will try to find a publisher." Alan Guthrie, Liberton, Edinburgh: April 24, 2012 |
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Recollections 164. Pete Murray |
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Peter Murray wrote: |
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Harkness Club "Does anybody remember the Harkness Club in the 1980s? It was in in east Fountainbridge, just round the corner form the Burke and Hare. It was above the Reo Stakis steakhouse. I can remember seeing bands there: - One was St Clements Wells who later changed their name to The Babies. - There was also a band who I cant recall the name of, but I remember Brian McEwen, the guitar player. Dolly Dagger "Does anyone remember the Edinburgh band, Dolly Dagger, from the early 1970s. I'm helping the daughters of one of one of the band's founders to put together recollections of the their late father's band. Although i was roadie for the band, and have a lot of photos and other memorabilia we would like to hear from people who remember hearing the band play." Other Clubs "I can remember quite a lot of the clubs from the 1970s. I noticed mention of the Americana and J.P. Reilly. I actually have one of his business cards as the band played there once. I also noticed mention of the International Club. Dolly Dagger played there once or twice I remember the late Linny Paterson of Beggars Opera had something to do with the club. That was before it became Fire Island. Pete Murray, May 6, 2012 |
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Reply to Pete? If you'd like to send a message to Pete Murray, please email me, then I'll pass on his email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: May 26, 2012 |
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Recollections 165. Sue McKendrick |
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Sue McKendrick wrote: |
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'The Reflections' "I'm trying to find some information, photos or footage of the Edinburgh band, 'The Reflections'. I'd appreciate messages from any contacts that may be able to help." The band went on to represent Scotland with the song 'Big Yellow Taxi' in the International Opportunity Knocks competition during the late-1960s or early-1970s. 'The Reflections' came third in the competition. The winner was a young German piano player." Band Members The band included: - Dougie McKendrick, my husband. - Colin Chisholm. He went on to greater things as a solo singer and, with a band called Bilbo Baggins. - Kenny Chisholm, Colin's brother. - Kenny McClean. He played the Skulls in the band for the Opportunity Knocks performance. We understand that Kenny is now a successful pub landlord in Edinburgh. Sue McKendrick: June 4+13+14, 2012 |
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Reply to Sue McKendrick? If you'd like to send a reply to Sue, please email me to let me know, then I'll pass on her email address to you. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh, June 13, 2012 |
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Recollections 165. Reply 1. Lisa McDonald Edinburgh |
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The Reflections Tommy McDonald, Manager Thank you Lisa McDonald, daughter of Tommy McDonald, the Manager of 'The Reflections' for contacting me, after reading Sue McKendrick's comments in 'Recollections 165' above. Lisa tells me that her Dad is 90 this year and would love to have some memories from the past put together for him. I've now forwarded Sue McKendrick's email address to Lisa and hope that they will be able to get i t ouch wit each other. Acknowledgement: Lisa McDonald, Edinburgh, May 6, 2013 |
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Update Please see also 'Recollections 181' below for further comments from Lisa McDonald about the groups that her Dad managed. |
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Recollections 166. Stuart Lyon Blackford, Edinburgh |
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Stuart Lyon wrote: |
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Uptown Disco "I have come across this photo of the Uptown Disco & Restaurant at 36-42 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. The photo was taken on November 15, 1982, after a fire in the building. It comes from the RCAHMS records (Ref No ED/14256). I've not seen any reference to this place in the 'Clubs & Discos Recollections' pages on the EdinPhoto website. Stuart Lyon, Blackford, Edinburgh: July 6, 2012 |
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Recollections Perhaps somebody will remember going to Uptown Disco, and will send me an email about it, so that I can add a note about it to this page on the website. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 15, 2012 |
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Recollections 167. Chris Selby Black Country, England |
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Here is a question that Chris Selby has posted in the EdinPhoto Guestbook. Chris wrote: |
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Question The In-Between "I am trying to trace the live appearances of a 1960s Midlands group called The 'Nbetweens'. They later changed their name to Slade. I've discovered a group called 'The In-Between' that played throughout Scotland in 1967-68. I'd like to find out if they were the same group or if 'The In-Between' were a Scottish group. Any help would be appreciated."
Chris Selby, Black Country,
England: |
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Reply to Chris? If you'd like to send a reply to Chris, please email me, then I'll give you his email address. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: October 14, 2012, 2012 |
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Recollections 168. Bob Leslie Glasgow, Scotland |
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Bob Leslie wrote: |
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Gig at Fairley's "I remember my band's first professional gig at Fairley's by the Shore, Leith. A John Wayne-type saloon battle started and we had to climb out the back window with our gear to escape! It's now a rather posh Italian restaurant - times have changed indeed!" Bob Leslie, Glasgow, Scotland, October 18, 2012 |
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Recollections 169. Bob Leslie Glasgow, Scotland |
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After reading the comments written yesterday in Recollections 168 above, I asked Bob Leslie if he could tell me a little more about his band. Please see below. Thank you, Bob. Perhaps others will also remember your band. |
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Bob wrote Paper Dream Our Players "Our band, in 1968-69, was Paper Dream. The Manager was Mike Dearie and the personnel were: - myself (lead vocals) - Billie Cowe (drums) - Stuart Munro (lead guitar) - Donald Watson (bass guitar). Later, Donald Watson was replaced by Stan Wolarz, aka Wallace, who is now playing lead guitar and fronting Stan the Man and the Bohemian Blues Band in Prague." Our Music "We played blues and underground rock - which at the time meant Cream and Hendrix. We played the usual youth club circuit and the university unions." Bay City Rollers "One high point was blowing the Bay City Rollers off stage at the Barnton Tennis Club Christmas dance in 1969. We got encore after encore. I went to the toilet while the band were playing an instrumental and Nobby Clark, their then singer, indicated to me that we had, in his opinion, overstayed our welcome. So we played two more encores and a charming young lady, named, as I recall, Jane threw herself at me." Chivalry dictates that I say no more about the rest of that evening! Davy Paton was in the Rollers then - before going off to form Pilot - and he was pretty friendly and ok about it all, but Nobby was raging! " Stan Wallace "We had a pretty good band but the usual personal niggles split it in half. Stan and I went off to form our own short-lived band, the name of which I can't remember. Stan and I played, on and off, in various bands until 1980, mainly in the North of Scotland and London." Bob Leslie, Glasgow, Scotland, October 19, 2012 |
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Recollections 170. Bob Leslie Glasgow, Scotland |
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Thank you to Bob Leslie for writing again with more memories from the 1960s onwards. Bob also explained the background to several of the groups that he has played with. |
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Bob wrote McGoos "I remember seeing Cream, in 1967, on their first tour of Britain, in McGoos. I think it cost me 7/6 (7shillings 6 pence)!" Top Storey "The Top Storey, at the top of Leith Walk, had 5 bands on a Sunday for 2/6! - The top band, when I started going there in 1966, was The Beachcombers, mainly playing Stax and Atlantic Soul. - Later, The Jury, with Linnie Paterson on vocals, took the top spot and mutated into the psychedelic band Writing on the Wall." International Club "The top band at the International Club in Princes Street were the amazing.
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Three's a Crowd did a
mixture of soul classics. - Jimi Hendrix was just coming on the scene. Robert 'Smiggie' Smith, The '3's lead player obviously recognised a kindred soul because his band began playing lots of Hendrix and Hendrix-influenced stuff. I particularly remember their version of 'Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'. I believe that 'Smiggie' became a roadie for the Grateful Dead. Harness Bar "My friend Stan Wolarz aka Wallace, from our band Paper Dream, ended up playing bass and then 2nd lead with a guitar player from Thurso called Johnny Sutherland in the resident band at the Harness Bar in the West Port around 1971." Touring Scotland "I had just got back from London after abortive talks with the Kinks' managers, Boscobel, and Stan persuaded Johnny to let me sing with the band. The bandIt was re-named Snark, and we toured the Highlands and Islands extensively for a year before that band broke up Stan's sister Pat and I had just had our son Matthew so I needed a steadier income. I started doing a country duo act round the social clubs with Johnny Sutherland. Johnny then went off to have fun in Marrakech and I toured the act with Stan taking Johnny's place. Stan went back to Thurso after a while and I toured as 'Big Bob West, the Biggest in Town' for a couple of years!" Heavy Rock "Then Stan and I went down to London for another crack at the big time! We had a band called The Warp doing heavy rock-type material stuff that we had written ourselves. After limited success, that band broke up and I did solo and 'scratch band' gigs (just phoning friends to see who was available). Chrysalis Records expressed an interest in my songwriting, but I burst out laughing after they asked me to write a follow-up to 'Total Eclipse of the Heart'. Then they seemed to lose interest! I was a bit of a musical snob then . I wish they'd ask me again now!" London then Glasgow "I ended up going to London University to do a degree in Spanish and Italian, which was great fun. Then I came north again to Glasgow to do post-graduate stuff. I worked for 20 years in North Glasgow College, raised two daughters, Madeleine and Alice, with my then wife, Anneli, then took an early retirement deal in July 2011. Now, I'm back as a full-time singer-songwriter on the folk and community hall circuits. Anybody wanting further info can find it on my - Bob Leslie web site." Bob Leslie, Glasgow, Scotland, October 20, 2012 |
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Recollections 170. Bob Leslie Glasgow, Scotland |
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Thank you to Bob Leslie for writing again with more memories from the 1960s onwards. Bob also explained the background to several of the groups that he has played with. |
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Bob wrote McGoos "I remember seeing Cream, in 1967, on their first tour of Britain, in McGoos. I think it cost me 7/6 (7shillings 6 pence)!" Top Storey "The Top Storey, at the top of Leith Walk, had 5 bands on a Sunday for 2/6! - The top band, when I started going there in 1966, was The Beachcombers, mainly playing Stax and Atlantic Soul. - Later, The Jury, with Linnie Paterson on vocals, took the top spot and mutated into the psychedelic band Writing on the Wall." International Club "The top band at the International Club in Princes Street were the amazing.
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Three's a Crowd did a
mixture of soul classics. - Jimi Hendrix was just coming on the scene. Robert 'Smiggie' Smith, The '3's lead player obviously recognised a kindred soul because his band began playing lots of Hendrix and Hendrix-influenced stuff. I particularly remember their version of 'Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'. I believe that 'Smiggie' became a roadie for the Grateful Dead. Harness Bar "My friend Stan Wolarz aka Wallace, from our band Paper Dream, ended up playing bass and then 2nd lead with a guitar player from Thurso called Johnny Sutherland in the resident band at the Harness Bar in the West Port around 1971." Touring Scotland "I had just got back from London after abortive talks with the Kinks' managers, Boscobel, and Stan persuaded Johnny to let me sing with the band. The bandIt was re-named Snark, and we toured the Highlands and Islands extensively for a year before that band broke up Stan's sister Pat and I had just had our son Matthew so I needed a steadier income. I started doing a country duo act round the social clubs with Johnny Sutherland. Johnny then went off to have fun in Marrakech and I toured the act with Stan taking Johnny's place. Stan went back to Thurso after a while and I toured as 'Big Bob West, the Biggest in Town' for a couple of years!" Heavy Rock "Then Stan and I went down to London for another crack at the big time! We had a band called The Warp doing heavy rock-type material stuff that we had written ourselves. After limited success, that band broke up and I did solo and 'scratch band' gigs (just phoning friends to see who was available). Chrysalis Records expressed an interest in my songwriting, but I burst out laughing after they asked me to write a follow-up to 'Total Eclipse of the Heart'. Then they seemed to lose interest! I was a bit of a musical snob then . I wish they'd ask me again now!" London then Glasgow "I ended up going to London University to do a degree in Spanish and Italian, which was great fun. Then I came north again to Glasgow to do post-graduate stuff. I worked for 20 years in North Glasgow College, raised two daughters, Madeleine and Alice, with my then wife, Anneli, then took an early retirement deal in July 2011. Now, I'm back as a full-time singer-songwriter on the folk and community hall circuits. Anybody wanting further info can find it on my - Bob Leslie web site." Bob Leslie, Glasgow, Scotland, October 20, 2012 |
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Recollections 171. Gerry O'Connell Weymouth, Dorset, England |
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Gerry O'Connell wrote: |
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Question Club in a Close near St Giles "My brother, who now lives in USA, has asked me if I can remember the name of a club where he worked in the early 1960s. It was in a close very near to St Giles Cathedral. It may have been Old Fishmarket Close. I remember that there was a Police Station in the same close. Does anybody know what club this might have been?" Gerry O'Connell, Weymouth, Dorset, England: October 25, 2012 |
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Reply top Gerry O'Connell If you think you might be able to help Gerry and his brother discover the name of the club, please email me, then I'll pass on your message to Gerry. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: October 27, 2012 |
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Recollections 172. Stuart Lyon Blackford, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Stuart Lyon for replying to Gerry O'Connell's questions in Recollections 171 above. Stuart wrote: |
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Reply Club in a Close near St Giles "There was a club called Bungies in Old Fishmarket Close." Stuart Lyon, Blackford, Edinburgh: October 28, 2012 |
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Thank you, Stuart. That's helpful. In fact, several people have already sent in their memories of Bungies. See Recollections 1, 7, 8, 36, 49, 56, 69 and 151. Here is an advert for the club: Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: October 28, 2012 |
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Recollections 173. Gus Coutts Duddingston, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Gus Coutts, Duddingston, Edinburgh for coming up with the same answer as Stuart Lyon above to the question asked by Gerry O'Connell in Recollections 171 above. Gus wrote: |
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Bungies "The club in Old Fishmarket Close was Bungies. It was the place where I first tasted spaghetti other than Heinz tinned stuff. It purported to be Spaghetti Bolognaise and consisted of a plate of spaghetti with what can't have been much more than a dessert spoonful of sauce in the middle." Gus Coutts, Duddingston, Edinburgh: October 28, 2012 |
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Recollections 174. Gerry O'Connell Weymouth, Dorset, England |
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Gerry O'Connell who wrote Recollections 171 above has replied: |
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Bungies "My brother is now aged 72 and is living in Nevada, USA. He will really be very pleased with all this info." Gerry O'Connell, Weymouth, Dorset, England: October 28, 2012 |
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Recollections 175 . Derick (Dex) Hannant Edinburgh |
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Dex Edinburgh Drummer Dex, who played drums in Edinburgh in the 1960s left this message in the EdinPhoto guestbook, hoping to find some of the others that he used to play with and has not heard of for some time. Dex wrote |
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1960s Where are you now, Robin? "I'm hoping to find information about Robin or Robert (Sinky) Sinclair. We played together in a couple of bands in the 1960s for big Dougie McDonald. I was in Germany with Sinky when we toured together with: - The McKinley Sisters. - Ally Dawson - Brian (Hendo) - Henderson - George Smith together. I haven't heard of them for a number of years but did back Sinky in the Jewel Miners Welfare club when he entered a talent contest, and I was filling in as drummer with Charlie Smith's band, a fantastic set by the way. He's a real showman! I'd be grateful for any information about any of these guys." Derick (Dex) Hannant, Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh: November 8, 2012 |
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Reply to Dex? If you'd like to contact Dex, please email me, then I'll pass on his email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: November 29, 2012 |
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Recollections 176 . Sharon Shepherd Dollar, Clackmannanshire, Scotland |
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Thank you to Sharon Shepherd for writing to me with sad news about her father, and for sending me a copy of his obituary below. Sharon wrote: |
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Pete Seaton Band Jimmy Robertson RIP "My father James (Jimmy) Robertson passed away on 2 January 2013 after a long illness. It would mean so much to our family if you have contacts that played in the Pete Seaton band, and indeed who maybe played in other bands that you could email, to let them know of his passing." Sharon Shepherd (née Robertson), Dollar, Clackmannanshire Scotland: January 4, 2013 |
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Recollections 177. Margaret Williamson (née Hay) Dollar, Clackmannanshire, Scotland |
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Thank you to Margaret for asking this question in the EdinPhoto guestbook. The question led on to more discussion of Edinburgh groups. |
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Margaret wrote: TV Six-Five Special "Does anyone remember the Six-Five Special on TV on Saturday nights? I watched Lonnie Donegan, and Nancy Whiskey singing her big hit, 'Freight Train'. I really liked skiffle music and its simple instruments. I think it was around 1957. I worked in Bairds at Home Street / Gilmore Place. My home was about 2 minutes away so I didn't miss the programme. Cliff Richard, Tommy Steele and Adam Faith were also on the programme. Good memories."
Margaret Williamson (née Hay), Moline, Illinois, USA. |
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Recollections 177. Reply 1. Dave McKinlay New Zealand |
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Dave McKinlay replied: |
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Nancy Whiskey "Yeah great days, Margaret - and you're spot on, 1958. I was serving in Cyprus with the Black Watch. Nancy Whiskey was one of many British entertainers who performed at our camp. I have a signed photograph, somewhere in the house, that she gave me then. Thanks for the memories." Dave McKinlay, New Zealand: Reply posted in the EdinPhoto Guestbook, February 11, 2013 |
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Recollections 177. Reply 2. Dot Walker Arlington, Texas, USA |
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Dot Walker replied: |
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The Black Jacks "My brother, Johnnie Walker, was with a Skiffle Group called 'The Black Jacks'. Some of the lads were from Bingham. They went on to be the Goldenacre's rock and roll band. Later, they became 'The George Merino Quartet' who played the Palais. Lonnie Donegan was the start of many a lad picking up a guitar." Dot Walker, Arlington, Texas, USA Reply posted in the EdinPhoto Guestbook, February 11,, 2013 |
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Recollections 177. Reply 3. Dave McKinlay New Zealand |
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Dave McKinlay replied |
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The Black Jacks "Hi Dot and Margaret: Yes, I remember 'The Black Jacks'. One of my neighbours in Bingham, John MacInyre, played in that band. They also played in Fairlies in Leith Street for a spell, and of course in the Palais, under The George Merino Quartet." Dave McKinlay, New Zealand: Reply posted in the EdinPhoto Guestbook, February 11, 2013 |
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Recollections 177. Reply 4. Bryan Gourlay Biggar, Lanarkshire, Scotland |
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Bryan Gourlay replied |
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George Marino Quartet "Hi Dot et al:
I remember your brother, Johnnie, from
nearly 50 years back when he played in the
George Marino Quartet
at the Palais.
Bryan Gourlay, Biggar, Lanarkshire, Scotland. |
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Recollections 177. Reply 5. Dot Walker Arlington, Texas, USA |
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Dave McKinlay, New Zealand, asked in the Edinphoto guestbook on 16 February 2013: "Would you know if John MacIntyre is still around? I'll be back in Edinburgh in July and it would be good to catch up with him." Dot Walker replied: |
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John MacIntyre "John MacIntire is still well and living in Broxburn. He and my brother did an 'oldies' benefit there in 2011. The.the room was filled with old rockers from the 1950s. A good time was had by all. Anyway Dave, I hope you will be able to contact him and catch up with old times." Dot Walker, Arlington, Texas, USA. Reply posted in the EdinPhoto Guestbook, February 15, 2013 |
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Recollections 178. Douglas K Kerr |
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Thank you to Douglas K Kerr who wrote: |
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Franco's and The Cave Club "No-one has mentioned Frisco's or The Caves Club. Frisco's was one of the big clubs in Edinburgh in the late-1960s and early- 1970s. I remember: - seeing Reg Dwight playing in 'The Long John Baldry' band' at Frisco's. - seeing David Bowie, also playing at Frisco's. - taking photos of The Scaffold at The Caves Club, or was it at Fernando's?" Other Groups These are the other groups that I remember from that time: - The Index - Tandem - Maxis Taxi - The Hunters - Fags and Matches - East West - Bodkin - Tear Gas - The Sleaz Band - Duster Bennett - The Third Ear Band - Three's a Crowd. Douglas K Kerr: May 3, 2013 |
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Recollections 179. Kate McDaid Bonnington, Edinburgh |
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There has been no mention of Franco's Club in 10 years, and now it has come up twice in two days. Kate McDaid writes: |
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Franco's Club "I wonder if anyone remembers Friscos Club. It was situated in a close behind Patrick Thomsons. I went there in 1969/70 to see Rory Gallagher and the place was jam packed!" Kate McDaid, Bonnington, Edinburgh: May 4, 2013 |
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Recollections 180. Derick (Dex) Hannant Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh |
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Derick (Dex) Hannant wrote: |
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Sinky "I'm still hopeful of finding information regarding Sinky - Robin (Robert) Sinclair - singer in Edinburgh with various pop bands in the 1960s. He was also on tour with the McKinley Sisters in Germany. I knew Sinky well and would very much like some info please."
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Reply to Dex If you have any information about Sinky that you'd like to pass on to Dex, please email me, then I'll pass on Dex's email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: May 7, 2013 |
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Recollections 181 Lisa McDonald Edinburgh |
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In her reply to 'Recollections 165' above, Lisa McDonald wrote that her Dad, Tommy McDonald, was Manager of the group: 'The Reflections'. Now, Lisa has written with more information including a photograph of 'The Reflections' which I will add to the EdinPhoto web site if I can get copyright permission to add it. Lisa wrote: |
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The Reflections "The musicians in my photo of 'The Reflections' are: - Dougie McKendrick - Kenny McKlean - Colin Chisholm - Kenny Chisholm" Maxi's Taxi "My dad was also the Manager of a few other bands around the 1960s and 1970s. One name that I do recall is 'Maxi's Taxi'. Acknowledgement: Lisa McDonald, Edinburgh, May 11+12, 2013 |
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Recollections 181 Reply 1. Freddie White Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Freddie White for replying to Lisa McDonald's comments above. Freddie wrote: |
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The Reflections and Maxi's Taxi "In Recollections 181 above, Lisa McDonald speaks about her father Tommy McDonald being Manager of: - Reflections and - Maxi's Taxi. Well, I'm Freddie White. I was drummer in Maxi's Taxi, along with Gillie and Dino. I still have a photo of the band. I'd love to meet Tommy, who I believe is now a 'young 90' ." Freddie White, Edinburgh: May 26, 2014 |
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Reply sent to LIsa I've now passed on Lisa's email address to Freddie. I hope that Freddie will be able to make arrangements to contact Lisa's father, Tommy. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 7, 2014 |
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Recollections 182. Douglas K Kerr Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Douglas K Kerr who wrote: |
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Go Go Dancers
"Does anyone remember some of
Edinburgh's go go
dancers? - Cuddly Kim at Frisco's - Baby Doll at the Nash. There were many more, but I can't name them. Where are they now?" Douglas K Kerr, Edinburgh<: June 29, 2013 |
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Recollections 182 Reply 1. Marilyn Mauran Dundee |
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Thank you to Marilyn Mauran who wrote: |
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Go Go Dancers Baby Doll "I was looking through the recollections and came across the post 182 from Douglas K Kerr. He asked if anyone remembered the go-go dancers and mentioned Baby Doll at the Nash Club. Well, that was me! I am now living in Dundee and run an accountancy business from home! Those were the days in Edinburgh when I danced at all the clubs and pubs. I have fond memories." Marilyn Mauran, Dundee, Scotland: February 5, 2014 |
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Recollections 183. Malcolm Finlayson Arbroath, Angus, Scotland |
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Thank you to Malcolm Finlayson who wrote in response to Douglas K Kerr's comments in Recollections 178 above. Malcolm wrote: |
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Caves Club Opening Night "I have a vivid recollection of the Caves Club Opening Night in July 1968. Stuart Henry and Tam Paton were aware of my aspirations for professional radio presentation and arranged for me to gain some experience with a short session on the disco. Stuart conducted the opening and Tam, I believe, had shares in the Club. The lead group was the Bay City Rollers, one of whom received a punch in the face relating to someone's assessment of his artistic ability It was a memorable night, particularly for the management who received numerous claims for compensation. Caves had been opened in a hurry, and the paint was still wet by late evening, which the clientele discovered whilst leaning against the walls. Absolute disaster! Girls with lovely dresses ruined, guys with mohair jackets, in particular, suffered badly. The worst were those who put their heads against the walls. Blonde and bright green lumpy hairstyle containing plaster was not in fashion in those days!" Malcolm Finlayson, Arbroath, Angus Scotland: May 25 + 26, 2013 |
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Recollections 184. Margaret Williamson (née Hay) Moline, Illinois, USA |
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Sadly. Margaret Williamson (née Hay) has written telling me of the death at the age of 51 of her nephew, the Edinburgh blues singer and guitarist. Margaret wrote: |
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Stevey Hay RIP "To-day, I got news that my nephew, Steven Hay, had died very suddenly of a heart attack. He used to have a band that Tam White played with. Edinburgh's music industry is shocked as I am. Stevey was a really nice guy and was friends with everyone he met. I'll miss him." Margaret Williamson, (née Hay). Moline, Illinois, USA: July 5. 2013 |
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Recollections 185. Margaret Williamson (née Hay) Moline, Illinois, USA |
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Thank you to Margaret Williamson (née Hay) for writing again and sending me this link to an article about her nephew Stevey Hay from the Margaret wrote: |
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Stevey Hay RIP "Here is a recent article on the internet about my nephew, Stevey Hay. It comes from a BBC News page for Edinburgh, Fife & East Scotland." Margaret Williamson, (née Hay). Moline, Illinois, USA: July 13. 2013 |
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Recollections 186. Mike Borys Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Mike Borys for responding to Malcolm FInlayson's memories of the Opening Night at Caves Club. Mike wrote: |
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Caves Club Opening Night "I remember the Opening Night at Caves Club. I think 'The Crazy World of Arthur Brown was playing there as well then." Frisco's "Frisco's manager, I think, was a guy called Buddy Miller, and the lassie in the cloakroom was a Julie Driscoll 'look alike' called Heather. I also saw: - Reg Dwight - Long John Baldry and - David Bowie at Friscos." "Great days remembered fondly." Mike Borys, Edinburgh (64-and-a-half years young): August 15, 2013 |
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Recollections 187. Mike Borys Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Mike Borys for letting me see some of his membership cards and flyers from Edinburgh clubs and discos in the 1960s and 1970s. Here they are. Please click on these thumbnail images to enlarge them: Mike wrote: |
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1960s and 1970s "Here are some old membership cards and flyers that I've found from Edinburgh clubs and discos in the late-1960s and early 1970s. Note the 15 shillings (75p) admission price for Pink Floyd." Suits and Boots "I was a bit of a raver in the old days. I wore a white suit and a turquoise suit to many of these clubs. I also had a pair of moccasin boots (Jethro Tull style) made for me by a chap who had a shop in East Fountainbridge. If any of our younger viewers would like to see a reasonably accurate depiction of clothes styles and dance moves at a typical club, look no further than "John Newman's video called Love me again. It takes me back!" 'The Bandura' Cafe "In the 60's and 70's my mum and dad used to own and run a wee cafe in Dalry Road called 'The Bandura'. Many of the bands came to the place as it stayed open till 3 o'clock in the morning. My mother has memories of: - Ra Rollers - The Stones - Writing on the Wall - This and That going there. It was one of two caffs that stayed open late. The other was 'The Metropole', opposite the Police Station in Torphichen Place. There were no MacD's or Kentucky Fried Hen in those days!" After the Performance "Many a time when the bands finished I would be asked to take some of the blokes home. (I had my mum's car). We used to drive to Yellowcraigs and line up the vans and cars in the car park in two rows and play football in the headlights. PS some of us did not play football but we were still having fun in the back of various cars and vans!!! Nudge Nudge." Mobile Disco "I got involved with a couple of chums and we ran a small mobile disco, using strobes that we bought from Scott Murray of 'This and That'. Other lights were supplied from various pubs' outside lights. We had a regular spot at the Heriot Watt Union. Great times were had by all! I'm still alive and still biking." Mike Borys, Edinburgh: August 17, 2013 (3 emails) |
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Recollections 188. Mike Borys Edinburgh |
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Mike wrote again, remembering more about the scene around the Edinburgh clubs and discos in the late-1960s and early-1970s. Mike wrote: |
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Cafes "I think that the cafe in Lothian Road was called Mr Smith's, and there was another cafe up some stairs in Rose Street North Lane. It was frequented by school kids who wanted to have a coffee and a 'fly fag'. I can't remember its name. Hairdresser "Another place of interest was the trendy hairdresser, 'His Hair', run by Murdo McLean, Charlie Miller and Charly Mairns Perms were the rave in the early-1970s. My hair was so fine, the perm lasted two washes!" Mike Borys, Edinburgh: August 18, 2013) |
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Recollections 189. Tommy Robertson 'Tommy the Mad Hatter DJ' Tollcross, Edinburgh |
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Tommy Robertson, who now owns Backtracks Music & Games Shop at 17 Brougham Street, Tollcross, has already sent me messages about Edinburgh Record Shops. Tommy also still operates as a DJ and runs Mad Hatman Discos Here, he recalls the time when he was a DJ in Edinburgh in the 1970s.. |
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Tommy wrote: DJ "This photo was taken in the basement disco at 'The Place', around 1978, when I was one of three DJs there." DJ Tommy Robertson in the Basement at 'The Place'
©
with acknowledgement to Tommy Robertson, Tollcross, Edinburgh Tommy added: The Place "There were three floors in 'The Place'. - a top lounge - the main disco floor, with DJ Tony - the basement, with reggae. - Ossie was the DJ for the basement. He covered Reggae, Disco, etc. I believe he was Afro Caribbean - Tony was the DJ for the main disco floor. He was older, and played vinyl records. - Tommy, The Mad Hatter DJ rotated as required playing vinyl records on both floors and for private functions Nicky Tam's "Before becoming 'The Place', this was 'Nicky Tam's'. Then, when 'The Place' closed, it reverted to being 'Nicky Tam's'." Tommy 'The Mad Hatter DJ' Robertson, Tollcross, Edinburgh: September 5, 2013 (2 emails) |
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Recollections 190. Tommy Robertson 'Mad Hatman Discos' Tollcross, Edinburgh |
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Tommy Robertson, owner of Backtracks Music & Games Shop at Tollcross, added: |
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Mad Hatman Discos "I still operate as a DJ/MC. music and entertainment provider,, doing private functions from weddings to children's parties and large charity events, etc Tommy 'The Mad Hatter DJ/MC' Robertson, Tollcross, Edinburgh: September 5, 2013 (2 emails) |
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Events Tommy sent me photos of himself running his disco at: - The 1st Edinburgh Marathon where he was DJ at start on Princes Street, then moved to Holyrood Park. (See the photo below.) - The Great Scottish Walk, aboard 'Boogiebus' around the city, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle esplanade. - A recent summer Challenges Scotland event. |
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Mad Hatman Discos Outside the Royal Scottish Academy at the foot of The Mound At the start of the 1st Edinburgh Marathon, 2006
© Reproduced with acknowledgement to Tommy Robertson, Tollcross, Edinburgh Photo taken 2006 This photo was taken by a tourist (name not known) using Tommy Robertson's camera. Tommy added: "After providing entertainment for the 1st Edinburgh Marathon in 2006, I went on to provide entertainment for the Edinburgh Marathon for the next 4 years in different locations as event was moved away from City Centre and Holyrood to Musselburgh. The route then passed outside Port Seton Caravan Park in East Lothian where I set up Roadshow entertaining thousands of passing runners and visitors." Tommy 'The Mad Hatter DJ/MC' Robertson, Tollcross, Edinburgh: September 5, 2013 (2 emails) |
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Recollections 191. Douglas K Kerr |
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Thank you to Douglas K Kerr who wrote Recollections 178 above for writing again, this time in response to Mike Borys' Recollections 186 to 188. Douglas wrote: |
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Mike Borys' Recollections "I see my old chum Mike Borys is still alive. In his Recollections 186 to 188, he writes about Frisco's, Heather McFarlane (the girl with the hair cut.) and Buddy Miller. - Buddy's sister, Patsy, and brother, Alistar, also worked in Frisco's - Mike had a mobile disco. It was called 'Beards' because he and his brother both had beards. - You had to wear sunglasses if you were going to look at Mike in his suitsOne more thing about Mikes suits, or make sure he was in a dark place." Douglas K Kerr: September 7, 2013 |
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Recollections 192. John Fitzsimmons Lauder, Borders, Scotland |
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Thank you to John Fitzsimmons who wrote: |
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"Hi Pete. I've just been turned on to the net, courtesy of my daughter! Just to say I'm very much enjoying your site." Musicians and Bands 1960s to 1980s "I've now been playing with many great musicians and bands in and around Edinburgh for almost 60 years. I knew most of the names mentioned and played alongside quite a few of them: - In the early-1960s: - The Strangers - The Satellites - Cam Robbie - Bobby King - The Jesters - In the mid-1960s: - Charlie McNair's Trad Band - The Memphis Road Show - 7up - Gasoline Allez - In the 1970s: - Chakra (four different line ups!) - Then, I met a guy named Tony Pilley who had a studio and I jammed up there with him and many fine musicians for quite a few years. - In the 1980s: - I moved down to near Newton Stewart in the Scottish Borders and formed Uncle Johns Band." Musicians and Bands Today "I now live in Lauder and still have a jam every weekwith local musos including John Brown (Plastic Meringue). I even do the odd gig! I'd be only too pleased to help out with any queries - and I send my profound apologies to all those fantastic and amazing singers and musicians that I've not mentioned (or have forgotten!)" John Fitzsimmons, Lauder, Borders, Scotland: February 9, 2014 |
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Reply to John? Perhaps you will remember John or some of the musicians that he mentions above. If you'd like to contact him now, please email me, then I'll pas on his email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: February 9, 2014 |
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Recollections 192. Reply 1. Ian Smith Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland |
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Thank you to Ian Smith for responding to Recollections 192 from John Fitzsimmons above. Here is an extract from the message that Ian wrote for John I've also passed on John's email address to Ian so that Ian can try to contact him direct.. |
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Ian wrote to Jonny: Memphis Road Show "I was a roadie, along with John Young, for Memphis Road Show. I worked in Pharmacology Dept while John was a Dental Technician based in Oxgangs. There seems to be no mention of Hamish McGregor on the EdinPhoto web site. (Who was he? - Peter Stubbs, Oct. 14, 2014)
I take it, Jonny, that you know that Colin Archibold and Gordon Cruikshank died some years back." After the Memphis Road Show "After the band split I put a mobile disco on the road my partner became pregnant. I then became very respectable, working as a vet rep for ICI Animal Health. If you've read 'All Creatures Great and Small', then that gives you an idea of the job - Always a set of wellies in the car in case you end up spending the morning on call with the vet. Mind you, the other job that I was offered was to work with Warner Bros, selling records!" Ian Smith, Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland: October 6 + 7, 2014 |
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Recollections 192. Reply 2. Ian Smith Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland |
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Thank you to Ian Smith for adding |
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Hamish McGregor "The majority of musicians and entertainers are 'part-time''. Hamish McGregor was the leader / musical director / promoter for the Memphis Road Show. He played baritone sax and got 'top dollar', playing R&B, Soul and Stax. He was well known for putting 'Fat Sams' Band on the road. Like the majority of musicians and entertainers, he was a 'part-time' performer. As a day job he ran the family business. McGregors Feed Mill. aka Quayside Mills, on side of Water of Leith Sandport Street. Memphis Road Show "Old age means that I've forgotten some of the other names. However, I remember that the Memphis Road Show consisted of Hammond Organ and Lesley Unit which gave you that wonderful swelling sound. - Colin Archibald on bass. - John Fitz on guitar. - Willie Mac on guitar and drums." Cars "Both Hamish McGregor and Colin Archibald (above) had a habit of regularly changing their cars. - Hamish had an E-Type Jag, Ford Escort Mk. 1, etc. - Colin had a Daimler Dart, Sunbeam Tiger, etc. Other Musicians "I also remember: - Neil Fox, being trained by Head Percussionist SNO. - Stuart Tosh, who wanted to be a pop star, so he was in Pilot 10cc. - a chap from Glasgow on a Ludwick kit, and his brother who played fiddle with pop band called 'East of Eden'. They had a hit called 'Jig a Jig'. - Hamish McGregor was on baritone sax - Gordon Cruickshank was on tenor sax - There were two trumpets. - Tom was singer." Ian Smith, Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland: October 15+16, 2014 |
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Recollections 192. Reply 3. Mark Wallace Stirling area, Scotland |
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Mark Wallace wrote: |
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Jonny Frazer "I've been looking for John (Jonny) Frazer (Fraser) who sang in the Good Companion pub at Oxgangs between September 1963 and January 1964. I’m not sure if he was in a group or on his own. I believe he was from the area and had a older sister John Fitzsimons seemed to know most people in the industry so he may be able to help me make contact with Jonny Frazer." Mark Wallace, Stirling area, Scotland: 2 August, 2016 |
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Message for Mark Wallace Hi Mark: I'll send you the latest email address that I have for John Fitzsimons, then you can try sending an email to him and asking him if he can suggest how you might get in touch with Jonny Fraser. I hope you'll find that he is still using the same email address as I pass on to you, and that you will be able to get in touch with him. If anybody else can suggest how Mark might contact Jonny, please email me to tell me, then I'll pass on your message to Mark. Thank you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: August 3, 2016 |
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Recollections 193. John Fitzsimmons Lauder, Borders, Scotland |
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Thank you to John Fitzsimmons for writing again. John wrote: |
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Telstars "One of my happiest memories of the early-1960s was as vocalist in a group called the Telstars. I feel they deserve at least a mention! We were resident band at Jimmy Roccio's Luna Park venue half-way down the Royal Mile. The line up was: - Davy Sugget (guitar) - Ricky Gray (keyboards) - Graeme Ogilvie (drums) - later replaced by Danny Lynch - the great Johnny Horne (sax) - Pat Fernie (also on vocals) - before she was poached by Johnny Campbell of 'Crusaders'!" Keeping in Touch "It would be fantastic to hear from any of them, or from anyone who knew them." John Fitzsimmons, Lauder, Borders, Scotland: February 9, 2014 |
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Reply to John? I hope that one or more of the group that John mentions above will read his notes and ask to get in touch with him. If you'd like to contact him, please email me, then I'll pas on his email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: February 9, 2014 |
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Recollections 194. Mike Crean Dorking, Surrey, England |
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Mike Crean who read a question from Allan Dodds, asking if anybody remembered a cafe with Juke Box at Goldenacre. Thank you to Mike for replying: |
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Goldenacre Cafe "I remember the cafe at Goldenacre very well. It was owned by Hilda and George Robertson. It was mainly run by Hilda, as George was a marine officer and was frequently away at sea." Beat Group "Hilda and George had a son John who had began to play the drums. Hilda and George decided to build a beat group around John and recruited a number of players. They advertised for a rhythm guitarist in the Edinburgh Evening News in February 1964" I had recently learned rock guitar and applied for the gig. I went round to the Robertson house, which was a ground floor flat in Goldenacre Terrace, for the audition." I had quite good equipment for those days - a Hofner Colorama Guitar and a Vox AC15 amp. So whether it was good playing - or my fancy gear - I got the place in the band." Practise "We used to practise in the front room of the flat, which was right on the corner at the traffic lights. Our efforts could clearly be heard outside, much to the amusement and no doubt displeasure of passers by, buses and taxis, etc. We also used to practise in the basement of the Goldenacre Cafe and Hilda also used to let us have little session nights for the regular customers." Juke Box "As Allan says it was a really nice little cafe, and Hilda certainly had a great juke box with lots of brilliant records." The K'Neins Unfortunately, she could be a bit domineering and insisted on calling our band 'The K'Neins'. It was obviously of German origin. "However, the other band members never figured out what this meant or why she wanted it. We hated the name and were frankly embarrassed by it ! Sadly things did not progress well. We did not really rate John as much of a drummer and the relationship with Hilda steadily declined. We finally split with the Robertsons one Saturday afternoon around June 1964. A very acrimonious split unfortunately! Hilda angrily threw us all out of the flat - and what equipment belonged to us, she and John dumped on the pavement outside. I had no further contact with the family after that and never saw them again." The Partisans Our group continued with a new drummer and we became quite successful over the next few years. Our name was changed to 'The Partisans' and we were joined by:
-
Jimmy Cruickshanks from 'The
Embers' and We were regulars at The Gamp, The 'Nash and other top venues in Edinburgh. When back in Edinburgh, I often pass the ground floor flat in Goldenacre Terrace and the cafe round the corner. Although it's now exactly 50 years ago, I can still vividly recall it all. Great memories!" Mike Crean, Dorking, Surrey, England: February 10, 2014 |
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Recollections 195. Brian Alexander Prestonfield, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Brian Alexander for replying to John Fitzsimmons' comments in his Recollections 193 above. Brian wrote |
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The Yellow Carvel "It was Interesting to read John Fitzsimmons' recollections of his long career in the Edinburgh music scene. I recall many nights in the early-1970s and mid-1970s at The Yellow Carvel, Tron Square (now The Tron) being entertained by the Charlie McNair Band with John on guitar. Happy days - and evenings! It's good to hear thatJohn is still enjoying his music." Shifting Steel "I also recollect a band called 'Shifting Steel' playing at The Yellow Caravel around the mid-1970s. I don't think John Fitzsimmons was in that band. Does any one remember them or know anything about that band?" Brian Alexander, Prestonfield, Edinburgh: February 12, 2014 |
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Recollections 196. Norma Allan (née Hardy) Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Norma Allan who wrote: |
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Bob Bertram "An old friend of mine, Bob Bertram, was brought up in Niddrie Mains. I wonder if anybody remembers him. He died a two years ago and was a well-known folk-singer in Edinburgh (Edinburgh Folk Club, etc)." Memorial Book "I'm busy completing a Memorial Book of his complete works (songs and poems) and am looking for a photo of the old Niddry Mains. I will probably go along and take some photos of it as it is today." Norma Allan Edinburgh: March 12, 2014 |
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Reply to Norma? If you remember bob Bertram and would like to send a reply to Norma, please email me, then I'll pass on her email address to you. Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: March 12, 2014 |
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Recollections 196 Reply 1. Graham Ferguson Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Graham Ferguson who replied to Norma Allan's Recollecitons 196 above. Graham wrote: |
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Bob Bertram "I knew Bob when we both lived at Carnegie Court. He used to look after the common gardens there until his health began to suffer. It's now at least 3 years since Bob died. Poems and Songs "I have two copies of a book that Bob wrote and had published containing his poems and songs. Unfortunately we are currently moving house so I don't think I could locate the book at the moment. Bob also had his poems and songs recorded by Edinburgh University for posterity." Graham Ferguson, Edinburgh: March 14, 2014 |
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Recollections 197. Ed Austin Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Ed Austin, Edinburgh, who wrote: |
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Nicky Tams "There was a very popular night club, based at 4 India Buildings, Victoria Street, off the Grassmarket, which nobody has mentioned yet on this page. - In the 1960s, it was only on the ground level floor. Then it was called Nicky Tams. - In the late-1980s, it was popular with bikers. - Probably around 1990, its name was changed and when I was at University, in 1991-95, it was called The Mission. It was on several floors and was popular with 'Goths'. - Around 1999/2000 its name changed again and it became Espionage. Now it's just another trendy bar on all floors. Ed Austin, Edinburgh: April 2, 2014 |
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Recollections 198. Malcolm Finlayson Arbroath, Angus, Scotland |
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Malcolm Finlayson sent me Recollections 183 above, with his memories of the Opening Night at Caves Club. Here are more of his memories of Edinburgh Clubs and Discos. Malcolm wrote: |
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McGoo's "Here is a photo of me taken in 1966, which was a very formative year for me.
© Reproduced with acknowledgement to Malcolm Finlayson, Arbroath, Angus, Scotland I was aged 15 then, and had the pleasure of attending various beat clubs in Edinburgh that summer. McGoo's had a profound affect on my life through the people whom I met there. I'm hoping to write more contributions about this in the near future. Malcolm Finlayson, Arbroath, Angus Scotland: Aril 15 + 16, 2014 |
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Recollections 199. Stuart Lyon Blackford, Edinburgh |
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Thank you to Stuart Lyon sending me a link to the site below, covering the music scene in Edinburgh from 1950 to date. Stuart wrote: |
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The Edinburgh Music Scene "I wondered if this link might be of interest to people reading the 'Edinburgh Clubs & Discos' pages on the EdinPhoto web site: Howff tae Hip Hop" Stuart Lyon, Blackford, Edinburgh: July 8, 2014 |
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Howff tae Hip Hop I've had a brief look at Howff tae Hip Hop, which the author, David Irving, describes "a subjective history of the Edinburgh Music scene". This history covers the years 1950 to 2011 under these topics: 1: Shortbread and Tartan (1950-1959) 2: The First Paradiddley Dum Dum Era (1960-1966) 3: Incredible Psychedelia (1967-1969) 4: Tartan Trews and Braces (1970-1975) 5: Flying Saucers Over Arthur’s Seat (1976-1978) 6: Punk’s Still Not Dead (1979-1981) 7: Splashing In The Dolfinarium (1982-1986) 8: Some Of The Greatest Pop Never Heard (1987-1995) 9: Pioneering The Hauntological Approach (1996-2001) 10: Sending Out The S.O.S. (2002- 2011) Peter Stubbs, Edinburgh: July 8, 2014 |
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Recollections 200. Malcolm Finlayson Arbroath, Angus, Scotland |
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Thank you to Malcolm Finlayson for writing again. Malcolm wrote: |
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Diaries "From 1963 to 1968 I maintained diaries, which nowadays are a treasured, and sometimes embarrassing, record of most of my teenage years July 1966 "The July 1966 entries are of particular interest to me, as they record details of the beat clubs that I visited over a two week period from 16 July, whilst on holiday in Edinburgh. I frequented: - McGoos, by far my favourite - The International - The Place - The Top Storey Clubs. Groups "I've seen reference in your Clubs and Discos section to some groups that were playing the scene in those days, and, on checking my diary, I found reference to the following whom, I recall, I saw principally at McGoos, namely: - Embers - Beachcombers - Henchmen - Squad - Three's a Crowd - Slaves - Hippie People - Manor Lords - Moonies - T-Set - The Dream Police I'm sure that others will be able to add to this list. The Kinks "I was delighted to find on your site a copy of an advert that appeared in the Edinburgh Evening News 48 years ago today, on 23 July 1966, announcing that the Kinks et al would be appearing at McGoos the next evening. I was there, and it was a wonderful night, the highlight being when they sang their then current single "Sunny Afternoon" which was No 1 in the offshore Radio Scotland charts of that time. I wondered if anyone else has memories of that evening." Malcolm Finlayson, Arbroath, Angus, Scotland: July 23, 2014 |
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Links to other pages Recollections 1-100 Recollections 201+ |
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Dance Halls: Table of Names, Dates and Addresses |