Don's 2018 Gig Reports
Saturday 27th January 2018
Book event at Wolverhampton Art Centre
I was awake at 07:00 at the Premier Inn, Wolverhampton.
Went for breakfast then went into town DVD shopping. I only got 'Victoria & Abdul’ with Judi Dench and Ali Fazal from my extensive list.
Came back to the hotel to clean up….
Chris Selby picked me up to drive to the Art Gallery.. They’d arranged a special parking spot for him….
Had a great time talking about my career and answering questions from the sold out crowd…
I spent quite a bit of time signing autographs and taking photos afterwards…
A few of us had drinks in my hotel bar before I went to bed….
Book event at Wolverhampton Art Centre
I was awake at 07:00 at the Premier Inn, Wolverhampton.
Went for breakfast then went into town DVD shopping. I only got 'Victoria & Abdul’ with Judi Dench and Ali Fazal from my extensive list.
Came back to the hotel to clean up….
Chris Selby picked me up to drive to the Art Gallery.. They’d arranged a special parking spot for him….
Had a great time talking about my career and answering questions from the sold out crowd…
I spent quite a bit of time signing autographs and taking photos afterwards…
A few of us had drinks in my hotel bar before I went to bed….
Photos: Michael Van Overstraeten
Sunday 28th January 2018
I was awake 07:00.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Packed and checked out of the hotel and waited for ‘H’ to pick me up to drive to Minehead.
Nice drive ( ‘H’ never gets out of 2nd gear).
Went straight to the gig to do our soundcheck - had a, nice chat with Mark (drummer with Big Country) also Nazareth were also on the bill.
I came to my chalet to clean up…… We had a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Mal and myself walked back to our chalet - I was in bed by 23:00.
A fantastic few days…..
I was awake 07:00.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Packed and checked out of the hotel and waited for ‘H’ to pick me up to drive to Minehead.
Nice drive ( ‘H’ never gets out of 2nd gear).
Went straight to the gig to do our soundcheck - had a, nice chat with Mark (drummer with Big Country) also Nazareth were also on the bill.
I came to my chalet to clean up…… We had a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Mal and myself walked back to our chalet - I was in bed by 23:00.
A fantastic few days…..
Friday 2nd February 2018
I got the train to Bognor Regis.
Met Mal at the reception of Butlins. We got the keys to our chalet.
We unpacked and went out to eat.
Went to say hello to John Coghlan (ex Quo original drummer) and his band in one of the restaurants. Came back to our chalet, didn’t see any of the bands play.
I was in bed by 23.00.
Saturday 3rd February 2018
Gig at Butlins, Bognor Regis
I was up, 09:30, made tea before cleaning up.
Mal and myself went out for a late breakfast early lunch.
I went to the gig to check my drums. Jon NowHire had already set everything up.
I went DVD shopping and got ‘The Hero’ with Sam Elliott and Laura Prepon….. ‘Gods Own Country’ with Josh O’Connor and Alec Secareanu
Went to the gig….
We couldn’t do a soundcheck as the gig was busy with something else??????
We had a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Mal and myself walked back to our chalet. I was in bed by 12:00 midnight.
Thursday 28th February 2018
I made my way to Copenhagen.
Our hotel was in Hellerup, Copenhagen.
Checked into our rooms - relaxed for the rest of the day…….
Friday 1st March 2018
Gig at Docken, Copenhagen, Denmark
I woke at 09:00.
Cleaned up and met Tim and Robin - we spent all afternoon at the gig,…..’Docken' - Copenhagen.
Sorted my drums out before our soundcheck - we were spending the next three concerts with Sweet…
We had a great gig to a sold out crowd. We closed the, show.
I was in bed by midnight…….
Friday 2nd March 2018
Gig at Broager Sparekasse Skansen
I was up at 07:00 - cleaned up and went to breakfast. I sat with Damian, Andy Scott’s son - he also does front of house sound for Sweet.
I wrote a ‘Mother’s Day’ piece for our Manager Abbie -apparently to be featured in Wolverhampton’s ‘Express & Star’ newspaper - so look out for it!
Drove to Sonderborg and checked in the hotel…..
Spent all day at the gig in Broager Sparekasse with Robin and Tim, so I could sort my drums out.
We opened the show - before Sweet - to a great 3,000+ crowd.
Relaxed back at the hotel before going to bed at 23:00.
Saturday 3rd March 2018
Gig at Musikteatret, Holstebro, Denmark
I was awake at 08:00.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
We all checked out of the hotel and drove to Holstebro.
I went to the gig with Robin and Tim…. ‘The Black Box Theatre’
Sorted all my drums out before the others came down for our sound check.
I was using a great snare drum made by the Mapex Drum Co. I tried to buy it from the Hire Co, BUT they wanted £750:00…… I said “NO WAY” !
Bruce Bisland, drummer with Sweet, knows the people at Mapex - he said he "would sort it for me…. “
We opened the show again to a few thousand people…. Another fantastic show for us.
WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND WITH OUR GREAT MATES THE SWEET……
I got the train to Bognor Regis.
Met Mal at the reception of Butlins. We got the keys to our chalet.
We unpacked and went out to eat.
Went to say hello to John Coghlan (ex Quo original drummer) and his band in one of the restaurants. Came back to our chalet, didn’t see any of the bands play.
I was in bed by 23.00.
Saturday 3rd February 2018
Gig at Butlins, Bognor Regis
I was up, 09:30, made tea before cleaning up.
Mal and myself went out for a late breakfast early lunch.
I went to the gig to check my drums. Jon NowHire had already set everything up.
I went DVD shopping and got ‘The Hero’ with Sam Elliott and Laura Prepon….. ‘Gods Own Country’ with Josh O’Connor and Alec Secareanu
Went to the gig….
We couldn’t do a soundcheck as the gig was busy with something else??????
We had a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Mal and myself walked back to our chalet. I was in bed by 12:00 midnight.
Thursday 28th February 2018
I made my way to Copenhagen.
Our hotel was in Hellerup, Copenhagen.
Checked into our rooms - relaxed for the rest of the day…….
Friday 1st March 2018
Gig at Docken, Copenhagen, Denmark
I woke at 09:00.
Cleaned up and met Tim and Robin - we spent all afternoon at the gig,…..’Docken' - Copenhagen.
Sorted my drums out before our soundcheck - we were spending the next three concerts with Sweet…
We had a great gig to a sold out crowd. We closed the, show.
I was in bed by midnight…….
Friday 2nd March 2018
Gig at Broager Sparekasse Skansen
I was up at 07:00 - cleaned up and went to breakfast. I sat with Damian, Andy Scott’s son - he also does front of house sound for Sweet.
I wrote a ‘Mother’s Day’ piece for our Manager Abbie -apparently to be featured in Wolverhampton’s ‘Express & Star’ newspaper - so look out for it!
Drove to Sonderborg and checked in the hotel…..
Spent all day at the gig in Broager Sparekasse with Robin and Tim, so I could sort my drums out.
We opened the show - before Sweet - to a great 3,000+ crowd.
Relaxed back at the hotel before going to bed at 23:00.
Saturday 3rd March 2018
Gig at Musikteatret, Holstebro, Denmark
I was awake at 08:00.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
We all checked out of the hotel and drove to Holstebro.
I went to the gig with Robin and Tim…. ‘The Black Box Theatre’
Sorted all my drums out before the others came down for our sound check.
I was using a great snare drum made by the Mapex Drum Co. I tried to buy it from the Hire Co, BUT they wanted £750:00…… I said “NO WAY” !
Bruce Bisland, drummer with Sweet, knows the people at Mapex - he said he "would sort it for me…. “
We opened the show again to a few thousand people…. Another fantastic show for us.
WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND WITH OUR GREAT MATES THE SWEET……
Monday 2nd April 2018
Hanne and myself checked in the, Redwings Hotel, Wolverhampton.
As Hanne wasn’t feeling well, we just relaxed in our room for the night…..
Tuesday 3rd April 2018
I was awake early at 06:30. Cleaned up and went for breakfast…..
We left for our appointment with the hearing specialist in, Wolverhampton.
Great consultation, I now have new hearing aids! I can actually hear clocks ticking……………
We then did some shopping in Wolverhampton - then to see my old school mate, Mike Brookes. Mike has the ‘One Way Music’ shop… He was telling Hanne about our school days AND when we tried to throw one of our mates on the bonfire one year. We couldn’t understand why he was struggling…….???????
We went out to eat and just relaxed for the night.
Wednesday 4th April 2018
I was awake early again.
I went into town for breakfast.
Hanne and myself went into town to meet my two sisters Carol and Mash for lunch and to introduce them to Hanne.
Mash’s son, Michael, and his wife Michelle and their new baby son Oliver joined us.
Later on, brother Derek picked us up to go and have dinner with his wife Chris.
Their son - Ian and his wife Michelle joined us.
A lovely evening…
Derek drove us back to our hotel - we were in bed by, 23:00.
Thursday 5th April 2018
I was up 08:00.
We had a final check up with my hearing aids….
We then spent the afternoon at, sister Carol and her husband Gel.
Lot’s of stories were told..
Friday 6th April 2018
I was up at 07:30.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
We caught the train to Birmingham and spent a few hours at the music store - PMT.
We got some recording equipment for our son Andreas.
The owner, Gary, really looked after us.
Made our way back to Wolverhampton and we spent the afternoon at a café with, our dear friend Carole Williams ( Caz). NOW she was the secretary at our first Agency ‘Astra’ in Wolverhampton - also our first ‘fan-club’ secretary.
She was telling Hanne ‘bout our early days.
Saturday 7th April 2018
I was up 08:00,
We had breakfast and spent the day with brother Derek and his wife Chris.
Went and put flowers on Mom and Dad’s grave. Spent the rest of the day with Derek and Chris,
Sunday 8th April 2018
Was awake at 08:00.
Went for breakfast before making our way to Oliver’s christening…
Hanne was once again thrown in the ‘deep-end’ with all my family.
There were three other christening’s at the same time. ’H’s’ son Sam and his wife and kids were at one of them……
When the vicar said “ I’m lighting ‘FOUR CANDLES’ everyone in the church started laughing cause of the ‘Two Ronnie’s sketch - so did the Vicar……
Lovely Day.
Monday 9th April 2018
Hanne and myself caught the train to Chelmsford.
Andy Scott and his wife met us - we all drove to Suzi Quatroi's house nearby.
We had a meeting about QSP recording another CD.
We all went to eat - lovely evening.
We all stayed at Suzi’s house for the night………
Saturday 14th April 2018
I woke at 07:30 at the Radisson Hotel, Stansted Airport.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Dave Kemp & Barbara picked me up to drive to St Albans.
We had to wait ages to do our soundcheck as the PA system wasn’t working!
Me and H went off to do a joint book signing at a local record store - great to see so many old faces there! And then We also did a meet and greet before the gig with people from the local radio station / competition winners.
Lot’s of friends were there at the gig, including Steffan Chandler (Chas’s son).
We played to about 800 people
Dave and Barbara drove me back to my hotel.
I was in bed by 01:30
Friday 27th April 2018
I was up at 04:00 - cleaned up and drove to the airport for my flight to Stavanger via Amsterdam.
I eventually got to Stavanger BUT my suitcase didn’t!
I filed a missing report for it and I was told I should get it later that day!
Checked in our hotel. Mal and myself went to eat together.
While we were eating - my suitcase arrived from Stavanger Airport.
I had tea with my drum tech Jon Overton before going to bed around 22:00
Saturday 28th April 2018
Gig at Sjøhusene i Stavanger, Norway
I stayed in bed until 09:45.
Made tea in my room before cleaning up.
I went downstairs and had more tea with Jon Overton. We relaxed before Danish fan Jostein came to our hotel for a, chat.
My great friend Karl Brazil (drummer with Robbie Williams and James Blunt) then also came to our hotel to have tea and a chat. He may come to Los Angeles next year with my step-son Andreas and myself for the NAMM music fair.
I went to the gig with Robin and Jon to sort my drums out.
The others arrived for our soundcheck.
Relaxed back at the hotel before having a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Came back to our hotel.
I had a few drinks with Karl before coming to bed around 01:30.
I was up at 04:00 - cleaned up and drove to the airport for my flight to Stavanger via Amsterdam.
I eventually got to Stavanger BUT my suitcase didn’t!
I filed a missing report for it and I was told I should get it later that day!
Checked in our hotel. Mal and myself went to eat together.
While we were eating - my suitcase arrived from Stavanger Airport.
I had tea with my drum tech Jon Overton before going to bed around 22:00
Saturday 28th April 2018
Gig at Sjøhusene i Stavanger, Norway
I stayed in bed until 09:45.
Made tea in my room before cleaning up.
I went downstairs and had more tea with Jon Overton. We relaxed before Danish fan Jostein came to our hotel for a, chat.
My great friend Karl Brazil (drummer with Robbie Williams and James Blunt) then also came to our hotel to have tea and a chat. He may come to Los Angeles next year with my step-son Andreas and myself for the NAMM music fair.
I went to the gig with Robin and Jon to sort my drums out.
The others arrived for our soundcheck.
Relaxed back at the hotel before having a great gig to a sold out crowd.
Came back to our hotel.
I had a few drinks with Karl before coming to bed around 01:30.
Friday 25th May 2018
I had an easy flight to, Stockholm. I was met there for about an hours drive to the centre, Lots of Friday night rush hour traffic.
Checked in my room and unpacked.
I met Mal going down to the bar I joined him for a cup of tea.
Met everyone else, we all had dinner together.
I was in bed by 21:40.
Saturday 26th May 2018
Gig - 80's Festival - Zinkensdamms, Stockholm, Sweden
I was up 08:00 made tea before cleaning up.
I went early to the gig with Robin and Jon ‘NowHire’
Sorted all our gear out before the others arrived for our soundcheck.
Drove back to the hotel to get ready for the gig.
We had a great open air show to about 5000 people…. Nik Kershaw finished the show.
Drove back to our hotel, had tea before going to bed 00:30.
Friday 1st June 2018
I flew to Brussels, relaxed in the lounge and made sandwiches for the day….
Flew to Berlin Tegal airport. Spoke to Abbie’s assistant Susanne, who said everyone was delayed ‘cause of bad weather…
I drank gallons of tea - H’ and Mal were also delayed, coming from Manchester.
The others finally arrived from Heathrow being sat on the plane for hours - they weren’t let off ‘cause of bad lightning.
We eventually got to our hotel in Plauen in the old Eastern Block.
I was in bed by 02.30.
Saturday 2nd June 2018
Gig in Vereinsbrauerei Greiz, Opena Air Festival, Germany
I was up just before the alarm went off at 10:00.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
I then went to the gig with Robin and Tim.
I found out ‘H’ and Mal didn’t get here to our hotel until’ 05:00 this morning - apart from their flight delay’s there was also a bad accident on the autobahn, delaying them even more.
Only John Berry and myself did our sound-check….
We drove back to the hotel together, we all had dinner together.
Had a SO-SO show - had to stop our show as the monitors were either not working OR all over the place….
I was in bed by 00:30.
Sunday 3rd June 2018
I was awake at 05:00.
Cleaned up and packed before breakfast.
Found out, flights were either cancelled or delayed again!!!!!!…
Susanne managed to get on two flights home via Amsterdam…..
What a weekend………
Saturday 9th June 2018
Gig at Sweden Rocks Festival
I was up at 07:00. Cleaned up and went for breakfast with Robin and Tim.
We then had a 25 mile drive to the ‘Sweden Rock’ site - absolutely massive = about four enormous stages. We had to wait awhile before we could do anything…..
I then managed to set my drums up behind a backdrop while a band was playing…..
I then just relaxed before the others arrived. Earlier on, I by chance met up with Jude, a guy who worked for Slade for many years during the ‘70’s and 80’s. First of all he was on a spot light, then he became our lighting designer. We had many a great time together. For a few hours we talked and laughed about when he worked for us.
He was now working with Judas Priest.
OK, we had a fantastic show to about 35,000 people, all singing along to our songs…..
Sadly, I never got to say hello to Ozzy. He played the day before BUT, had to rush off straight away after his show. By private jet to another festival….
Friday 15th June 2018
Ringo Starr gig in Horsens, Denmark
Hanne and myself drove to Horsens for the Ringo Starr Concert….
We parked up and made our way to the backstage area…. We have been told we were on the backstage list but had no idea how we were going to get in.......At the backstage entrance they had NO idea about our names on the guest list….
We went to the front entrance - the same there…. I thought "OH NO"… We left a few messages on mobile phones.
Apparently, text messages were flying around all over Europe and America ‘bout the, whereabouts of our passes.
We eventually made contact with Gregg Bissonette (Ringo’s other drummer) - he had all our passes. (PHEW). We went backstage and bumped into Graham Gouldman (10CC) he was playing bass for Ringo.
He told us that Ringo had said to him: “Slade’s drummer Don Powell is going to play with us tonight".
We met Jeff Chonis, Ringo’s drum tech, he told me to go easy on Ringo’s kit - which I would be using! Ringo then came up to me, holding a huge plate..... with a very small piece of cake on it for me!
We had a really lovely conversation about everything, especially in America. He reckoned, Slade came on too strong over there while, trying to ‘crack’ that country.
He’s such a lovely down to earth person. I told him about us recording “Delighted To See You” at Abbey Road Studios while he was there with The Beatles recording songs for ‘Sgt Pepper’. On the day, we were there, they were actually recording George Harrison's 'It’s Only A Northern Song’ which ended up on ‘Magical Mystery Tour’,
I told him about seeing, George Martin, (their producer) coming out of the control room, burying his head in his hands, giving out an enormous sigh….. Ringo confirmed: “he was always doing that”.
Anyway, there were about, 4000+ people at the show. He had a great band….. Graham Gouldman from 10CC on bass, Colin Hay from Men At Work, on guitar and vocals. Steve Lukather, Toto, on guitar and vocals, Gregg Rolie, Santana, Keyboards and vocals. Warren Ham on Sax & flute - he played with Olivia Newton-John Newton, TOTO and Donna Summer. The there was Gregg Bissonette on Drums and he's played with Dave Lee Roth and Don Henley.
Ringo actually played with all the hits from his various performers with their respective bands
Would you believe, I actually played Ringo’s drums for the final songs of their show. I played 'With A Little Help From My Friends' & 'Give Peace A Chance'
What an absolute dream for me………………
Ringo Starr gig in Horsens, Denmark
Hanne and myself drove to Horsens for the Ringo Starr Concert….
We parked up and made our way to the backstage area…. We have been told we were on the backstage list but had no idea how we were going to get in.......At the backstage entrance they had NO idea about our names on the guest list….
We went to the front entrance - the same there…. I thought "OH NO"… We left a few messages on mobile phones.
Apparently, text messages were flying around all over Europe and America ‘bout the, whereabouts of our passes.
We eventually made contact with Gregg Bissonette (Ringo’s other drummer) - he had all our passes. (PHEW). We went backstage and bumped into Graham Gouldman (10CC) he was playing bass for Ringo.
He told us that Ringo had said to him: “Slade’s drummer Don Powell is going to play with us tonight".
We met Jeff Chonis, Ringo’s drum tech, he told me to go easy on Ringo’s kit - which I would be using! Ringo then came up to me, holding a huge plate..... with a very small piece of cake on it for me!
We had a really lovely conversation about everything, especially in America. He reckoned, Slade came on too strong over there while, trying to ‘crack’ that country.
He’s such a lovely down to earth person. I told him about us recording “Delighted To See You” at Abbey Road Studios while he was there with The Beatles recording songs for ‘Sgt Pepper’. On the day, we were there, they were actually recording George Harrison's 'It’s Only A Northern Song’ which ended up on ‘Magical Mystery Tour’,
I told him about seeing, George Martin, (their producer) coming out of the control room, burying his head in his hands, giving out an enormous sigh….. Ringo confirmed: “he was always doing that”.
Anyway, there were about, 4000+ people at the show. He had a great band….. Graham Gouldman from 10CC on bass, Colin Hay from Men At Work, on guitar and vocals. Steve Lukather, Toto, on guitar and vocals, Gregg Rolie, Santana, Keyboards and vocals. Warren Ham on Sax & flute - he played with Olivia Newton-John Newton, TOTO and Donna Summer. The there was Gregg Bissonette on Drums and he's played with Dave Lee Roth and Don Henley.
Ringo actually played with all the hits from his various performers with their respective bands
Would you believe, I actually played Ringo’s drums for the final songs of their show. I played 'With A Little Help From My Friends' & 'Give Peace A Chance'
What an absolute dream for me………………
Tuesday 19th June 2018
Barnes Lunch
I was awake at 06:00.
I cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Checked out of my hotel and made my way to Barnes for our lunch.
I was the second one to arrive - Rab Noakes being the first.
Had the usual fantastic afternoon. I sat with John (original Quo drummer) and his wife Gillie. Andy and Jane Scott were also there. Suzi Quatro and her husband Rainer couldn’t make it, neither could Nod????????.
Everyone was talking about me playing drums with Ringo!
I made my way back to my hotel. Wandered aimlessly round Hammersmith, drinking gallons of tea.
I was in bed by 21:30.
Wednesday 20th June 2018
I was awake at 05:30.
Made tea before cleaning up.
I made my way to a cafe near Hammersmith to have lunch with writer Daryl Easlea who has been commissioned to write a new SLADE biography... We had a good few hours together discussing his approach...... He gave me the Peter Gabriel book he’s written “Without Frontiers - The Life And Music Of”. We would keep in touch as to research etc.,.
I collected my clothes package that somehow got lost in the post and was delivered to my accountant Alan Heywood's office,
I asked him if he got it laundered for me !!!!!!!. I made my way back to HMV and brought the DVD’s of ‘Darkest Hour’ with Gary Oldman about Winston Churchill....’Winchester’ with Helen Mirren.....’Let The Sunshine In’ with Juliette Binoche......’The Post’ with Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks also a CD by Phil Everly... ‘There’s Nothing Too Good For My Baby’ and ‘Mystic Line’..... (the first record I ever bought was ‘Problems’ by the Everly Brothers’ around 1958).
Came back to my hotel and was in bed by 22:00.
Thursday 21st June 2018
I was awake at 06:45 - made tea before cleaning up.
I went out for, breakfast before going to the, drum shops around Shaftesbury Avenue and Denmark Street. I managed to stop myself buying anything....
SO, off to the, DVD shops and got, ‘Arrival’ with, ‘Amy Adams’ + ‘Jeremy Renner’
‘Jackie’ with, ‘Natalie Portman’ ( ‘bout Jackie Kennedy). The, CD’s ‘Blow By Blow’ by Jeff Beck’ ( an old one.) ‘The Beach Boys’ with the, Royal Philhamonic Orchestra...
I called John Berry to confirm his wife Anna would get me a, new suitcase.. ( Cost, from John Lewis, Oxford St.)
Watched some of, the World Cup game, France versus Peru.... Couldn’t be bothered to see the, end.... I was in bed by, 19:45.
Ozzie would be discussted....
Friday 22nd June 2018
I was awake, 06:15 before my alarm went off at 07:00
Cleaned up and packed to check out and make my way to Euston Station.
I managed to get a direct train to Bangor. I could walk to my hotel - checked into my room and walked back into town. (Thank God there weren’t any DVD shops).
I had tea and cake in every café in Bangor….
Walked back to my hotel and watched Nigeria play Iceland in the, World cup…. 2-0 was the score to Nigeria.
I was in bed by 19:45…….
Saturday 23rd June 2018
Zip World Rocks gig
Bethesda, Wales
I got up 08:00.
Made tea in my room before cleaning up.
I walked into town and then to the gig.
I helped the crew set my drums up before we did our sound check.
Our old friend Gaz Top was hosting the show…… he was always 100% behind Slade when he was on TV, he hosted a great Slade special specially for TV.
It was great to see him and spend some time together.
We had great outdoor gig to about a 1,000 people.
Made my way back to my hotel and had tea and biscuits with the staff before going to bed 00:15.
Friday 6th July 2018
Gig at Midnattsrocken Festival, Lakselv, Norway
I was awake, 06:30. ??????
I cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Relaxed in my room before ‘H’, Abbie and myself had a general meeting about things before going to lunch.
Around 14:00 I went to the gig with Tim and Robin to sort the equipment out. The crew were well together and it didn’t take long for everything to be sorted out. The others arrived and we did our soundcheck..... We rehearsed “ In For A Penny”
Came back to our hotel as we had hours to kill... I just relaxed in my room.
We had a great show, BUT, not too many people...... “In For A Penny” was great to play...
Drove back to our hotel - I went straight to bed at 01:00
Sunday 8th July 2018
I’m sitting in the lounge in Oslo Airport with about three hours to kill before my flight home.
SO, here I am, writing my diary pages for my web-site......
Barnes Lunch
I was awake at 06:00.
I cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Checked out of my hotel and made my way to Barnes for our lunch.
I was the second one to arrive - Rab Noakes being the first.
Had the usual fantastic afternoon. I sat with John (original Quo drummer) and his wife Gillie. Andy and Jane Scott were also there. Suzi Quatro and her husband Rainer couldn’t make it, neither could Nod????????.
Everyone was talking about me playing drums with Ringo!
I made my way back to my hotel. Wandered aimlessly round Hammersmith, drinking gallons of tea.
I was in bed by 21:30.
Wednesday 20th June 2018
I was awake at 05:30.
Made tea before cleaning up.
I made my way to a cafe near Hammersmith to have lunch with writer Daryl Easlea who has been commissioned to write a new SLADE biography... We had a good few hours together discussing his approach...... He gave me the Peter Gabriel book he’s written “Without Frontiers - The Life And Music Of”. We would keep in touch as to research etc.,.
I collected my clothes package that somehow got lost in the post and was delivered to my accountant Alan Heywood's office,
I asked him if he got it laundered for me !!!!!!!. I made my way back to HMV and brought the DVD’s of ‘Darkest Hour’ with Gary Oldman about Winston Churchill....’Winchester’ with Helen Mirren.....’Let The Sunshine In’ with Juliette Binoche......’The Post’ with Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks also a CD by Phil Everly... ‘There’s Nothing Too Good For My Baby’ and ‘Mystic Line’..... (the first record I ever bought was ‘Problems’ by the Everly Brothers’ around 1958).
Came back to my hotel and was in bed by 22:00.
Thursday 21st June 2018
I was awake at 06:45 - made tea before cleaning up.
I went out for, breakfast before going to the, drum shops around Shaftesbury Avenue and Denmark Street. I managed to stop myself buying anything....
SO, off to the, DVD shops and got, ‘Arrival’ with, ‘Amy Adams’ + ‘Jeremy Renner’
‘Jackie’ with, ‘Natalie Portman’ ( ‘bout Jackie Kennedy). The, CD’s ‘Blow By Blow’ by Jeff Beck’ ( an old one.) ‘The Beach Boys’ with the, Royal Philhamonic Orchestra...
I called John Berry to confirm his wife Anna would get me a, new suitcase.. ( Cost, from John Lewis, Oxford St.)
Watched some of, the World Cup game, France versus Peru.... Couldn’t be bothered to see the, end.... I was in bed by, 19:45.
Ozzie would be discussted....
Friday 22nd June 2018
I was awake, 06:15 before my alarm went off at 07:00
Cleaned up and packed to check out and make my way to Euston Station.
I managed to get a direct train to Bangor. I could walk to my hotel - checked into my room and walked back into town. (Thank God there weren’t any DVD shops).
I had tea and cake in every café in Bangor….
Walked back to my hotel and watched Nigeria play Iceland in the, World cup…. 2-0 was the score to Nigeria.
I was in bed by 19:45…….
Saturday 23rd June 2018
Zip World Rocks gig
Bethesda, Wales
I got up 08:00.
Made tea in my room before cleaning up.
I walked into town and then to the gig.
I helped the crew set my drums up before we did our sound check.
Our old friend Gaz Top was hosting the show…… he was always 100% behind Slade when he was on TV, he hosted a great Slade special specially for TV.
It was great to see him and spend some time together.
We had great outdoor gig to about a 1,000 people.
Made my way back to my hotel and had tea and biscuits with the staff before going to bed 00:15.
Friday 6th July 2018
Gig at Midnattsrocken Festival, Lakselv, Norway
I was awake, 06:30. ??????
I cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Relaxed in my room before ‘H’, Abbie and myself had a general meeting about things before going to lunch.
Around 14:00 I went to the gig with Tim and Robin to sort the equipment out. The crew were well together and it didn’t take long for everything to be sorted out. The others arrived and we did our soundcheck..... We rehearsed “ In For A Penny”
Came back to our hotel as we had hours to kill... I just relaxed in my room.
We had a great show, BUT, not too many people...... “In For A Penny” was great to play...
Drove back to our hotel - I went straight to bed at 01:00
Sunday 8th July 2018
I’m sitting in the lounge in Oslo Airport with about three hours to kill before my flight home.
SO, here I am, writing my diary pages for my web-site......
Friday 20th July 2018
I made my way to the airport….
It was absolutely packed solid with people going away on holiday….
I thought to myself “ I’m gonna miss my flight”
Then a Ryanair employee saw my dilemma and came over to me saying “ come with me”
She took me to the section where only aircrews go through - SO, I breezed through, still having my bags checked by the X-Ray machines and my self-going through the usual security checks... But at least it took a fraction of the time…I was then escorted to the lounge ( I’m a frequent visitor anyway..)
Relaxed with cake before making my sandwiches for the day.
Flew to Stansted…. Re-Checked my luggage through to Asturias in Spain, THEN, went to the lounge there.
Eating lot’s of cake and chocolate..
I flew direct to Asturias where I was met by a very muddy festival worker Ruben….( Lots of rain apparently over the last few days.)
Ruben drove me about 40 mins to our hotel… ( the others were flying into Bilbao, about a 4 hour drive away).
I relaxed in our hotel (I was first there so I got the biggest room, almost a suite).
I unpacked, went for tea and a sandwich before going to bed at 21:00…..
Saturday 21st July 2018
Gig - Playa Espasa, Spain: Motorbeach festivaliival
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:00…
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Everyone else was there.
I had a walk round, only cafés and bars to be seen.
I went to the gig with Tim, Robin and Suzanne.
IT WAS A COMPLETE MUD-BATH….
Tried to get on the stage up a ramp, no luck, kept sliding down…. It was arranged for steps to be put there.
At first, Tim was going to pull the show ‘cause of the rain possibly being a danger ‘cause of the electric supply.
STILL, we went on…..had a GREAT gig to about 4000 people, soaking wet and incredibly muddy.. ( SO WERE WE.)
We had to cover our shoes with plastic bags to go into our hotel.
I was ages, washing my stage shoes and travelling sandals in my shower, almost blocking the drains….
I eventually got to bed at 01 :30.
I made my way to the airport….
It was absolutely packed solid with people going away on holiday….
I thought to myself “ I’m gonna miss my flight”
Then a Ryanair employee saw my dilemma and came over to me saying “ come with me”
She took me to the section where only aircrews go through - SO, I breezed through, still having my bags checked by the X-Ray machines and my self-going through the usual security checks... But at least it took a fraction of the time…I was then escorted to the lounge ( I’m a frequent visitor anyway..)
Relaxed with cake before making my sandwiches for the day.
Flew to Stansted…. Re-Checked my luggage through to Asturias in Spain, THEN, went to the lounge there.
Eating lot’s of cake and chocolate..
I flew direct to Asturias where I was met by a very muddy festival worker Ruben….( Lots of rain apparently over the last few days.)
Ruben drove me about 40 mins to our hotel… ( the others were flying into Bilbao, about a 4 hour drive away).
I relaxed in our hotel (I was first there so I got the biggest room, almost a suite).
I unpacked, went for tea and a sandwich before going to bed at 21:00…..
Saturday 21st July 2018
Gig - Playa Espasa, Spain: Motorbeach festivaliival
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:00…
Cleaned up and went for breakfast.
Everyone else was there.
I had a walk round, only cafés and bars to be seen.
I went to the gig with Tim, Robin and Suzanne.
IT WAS A COMPLETE MUD-BATH….
Tried to get on the stage up a ramp, no luck, kept sliding down…. It was arranged for steps to be put there.
At first, Tim was going to pull the show ‘cause of the rain possibly being a danger ‘cause of the electric supply.
STILL, we went on…..had a GREAT gig to about 4000 people, soaking wet and incredibly muddy.. ( SO WERE WE.)
We had to cover our shoes with plastic bags to go into our hotel.
I was ages, washing my stage shoes and travelling sandals in my shower, almost blocking the drains….
I eventually got to bed at 01 :30.
Sunday 22nd July 2018
I was stranded at my airport for 3 hours ‘cause of baggage handlers working on a go slow situation.
I was sitting on my plane, full of passengers, having to wait for them to take the bags off from when the plane landed….
We were 7th in line to have that done. We had to wait on the plane in case the Captain got the all clear….
STILL not bad really, after nearly 60 years of flying, we’ve been pretty lucky. (Perhaps I shouldn’t have said that).
edit.
I was stranded at my airport for 3 hours ‘cause of baggage handlers working on a go slow situation.
I was sitting on my plane, full of passengers, having to wait for them to take the bags off from when the plane landed….
We were 7th in line to have that done. We had to wait on the plane in case the Captain got the all clear….
STILL not bad really, after nearly 60 years of flying, we’ve been pretty lucky. (Perhaps I shouldn’t have said that).
edit.
riday 27th July 2018
Checked in for my flight to Krakow.....
We were about an hour delayed ‘ cause of in-coming flight and bad weather delays.
I eventually met everyone at Krakow Airport. Drove about 3 hours to Nizna checked in our hotel,
We all ate together, I was in bed by 22:30.
Saturday 28th July 2018
Gig in Rockovy Zaber, Námestovo, Žilina Region, Slovakia
I was awake 08:30. Cleaned up and went for breakfast, everyone was there,
I went to the gig with, Robin and Tim. Sorted all the drums and monitors out. There wouldn’t be a sound check....
Drove back to the, hotel to relax and clean up.
Had tea in the, hotel restaurant before leaving for the gig.
Had a great open air gig to about a 1000 people, and at least the rain kept away.
Came back to the hotel, had tea before I came to my room.
I was sorting a few things out, when I heard a commotion outside the room opposite...
Opening my door, I found roadie Tim almost passed out on the floor In the corridor. He had a ‘gash’ over his left eye, like as if he’d head-butted the wall.......
I was trying to get sense out of a totally incoherent person.
I did find out, he WAS outside his room, I managed to find his key- card in one of his pockets.
Got him into his room, threw him onto his bed and left him.
Checked in for my flight to Krakow.....
We were about an hour delayed ‘ cause of in-coming flight and bad weather delays.
I eventually met everyone at Krakow Airport. Drove about 3 hours to Nizna checked in our hotel,
We all ate together, I was in bed by 22:30.
Saturday 28th July 2018
Gig in Rockovy Zaber, Námestovo, Žilina Region, Slovakia
I was awake 08:30. Cleaned up and went for breakfast, everyone was there,
I went to the gig with, Robin and Tim. Sorted all the drums and monitors out. There wouldn’t be a sound check....
Drove back to the, hotel to relax and clean up.
Had tea in the, hotel restaurant before leaving for the gig.
Had a great open air gig to about a 1000 people, and at least the rain kept away.
Came back to the hotel, had tea before I came to my room.
I was sorting a few things out, when I heard a commotion outside the room opposite...
Opening my door, I found roadie Tim almost passed out on the floor In the corridor. He had a ‘gash’ over his left eye, like as if he’d head-butted the wall.......
I was trying to get sense out of a totally incoherent person.
I did find out, he WAS outside his room, I managed to find his key- card in one of his pockets.
Got him into his room, threw him onto his bed and left him.
Friday 10th August 2018
I made my way to Billund Airport.
I’d already checked in on-line….. made my way to the lounge to relax and make sandwiches for the day.
Flew to Amsterdam then, onto Prague. Suzanne was already there.’ H’ arrived shortly (don’t call him shortly). Then Mal.
We drove about 90 minutes to Pardubice and checked in our hotel. ‘H’ and Suz went out to eat, Mal and myself had tea in the hotel.
I was in bed by 22:45.
Saturday 11th August 2018
Gig at Friends Festival, Pardubice, Pardubice Region, Czech Republic
I stayed in bed ‘till 08:30.
Relaxed with tea in my room before cleaning up.
Caught up on a few e-mails with Ric Lee (drummer with Ten Years After) they were also in Czech tonight - playing in Zljin.
Also, I was mailing Terry McCusKer one of the authors of the Ringo Starr book I did the foreword for…
I met Mal and we had a walk round town - saw a few nice posters in the shopping Mall advertising tonight’s show…
Then a guy came up to us, a big fan, he took his shirt off and stretched on the pavement for us to sign, much to the amazement of passers-by…
Met ‘H’ while we were out - we all had tea together in a café.
Came back to the hotel. I then went to the gig with Robin and Tim - spent the afternoon sorting the equipment out.
Had a great show to about 4,000 people.
We were all presented with white ‘Stetsons’ with a badge on advertising the gig ”Friends Fest” - ALSO, a cake to each of us….. Mine was in the shape of a ‘bass-Drum’ with the Slade logo on the front - the others had cakes in the shape of guitars (‘H’s was only a small one….)
I was in bed by 23:00…..
I made my way to Billund Airport.
I’d already checked in on-line….. made my way to the lounge to relax and make sandwiches for the day.
Flew to Amsterdam then, onto Prague. Suzanne was already there.’ H’ arrived shortly (don’t call him shortly). Then Mal.
We drove about 90 minutes to Pardubice and checked in our hotel. ‘H’ and Suz went out to eat, Mal and myself had tea in the hotel.
I was in bed by 22:45.
Saturday 11th August 2018
Gig at Friends Festival, Pardubice, Pardubice Region, Czech Republic
I stayed in bed ‘till 08:30.
Relaxed with tea in my room before cleaning up.
Caught up on a few e-mails with Ric Lee (drummer with Ten Years After) they were also in Czech tonight - playing in Zljin.
Also, I was mailing Terry McCusKer one of the authors of the Ringo Starr book I did the foreword for…
I met Mal and we had a walk round town - saw a few nice posters in the shopping Mall advertising tonight’s show…
Then a guy came up to us, a big fan, he took his shirt off and stretched on the pavement for us to sign, much to the amazement of passers-by…
Met ‘H’ while we were out - we all had tea together in a café.
Came back to the hotel. I then went to the gig with Robin and Tim - spent the afternoon sorting the equipment out.
Had a great show to about 4,000 people.
We were all presented with white ‘Stetsons’ with a badge on advertising the gig ”Friends Fest” - ALSO, a cake to each of us….. Mine was in the shape of a ‘bass-Drum’ with the Slade logo on the front - the others had cakes in the shape of guitars (‘H’s was only a small one….)
I was in bed by 23:00…..
Friday 17th August 2018
Made my way to the, airport checked in to fly to Stavanger via Amsterdam....
Met Susanne in Amsterdam - we flew to Stavanger together.
Met H and Mal there - drove to our hotel. Checked in and sat outside at a cafe next door to the hotel.
We all went with the promoter to the gig ( Jaervegen 373 ) a fantastic massive bikers club to have dinner. Their club was about 30 mins drive from our hotel...
Met quit a few people there before driving back to our hotel.
I was in bed by 21:00.....
Saturday 18th August 2018
Gig at Jaervegen 373, Amsterdam, Holland
I was up 08:30 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast. I then drove to the gig with, Tim & Robin to sort the equipment out.
The rest arrived and we did our souncheck.
Came back to the hotel to relax.
Drove back to the gig, had a great show to a sold out crowd.
Met quite a few people after.
We then drove back to our hotel - I was in bed by 00:30.
Made my way to the, airport checked in to fly to Stavanger via Amsterdam....
Met Susanne in Amsterdam - we flew to Stavanger together.
Met H and Mal there - drove to our hotel. Checked in and sat outside at a cafe next door to the hotel.
We all went with the promoter to the gig ( Jaervegen 373 ) a fantastic massive bikers club to have dinner. Their club was about 30 mins drive from our hotel...
Met quit a few people there before driving back to our hotel.
I was in bed by 21:00.....
Saturday 18th August 2018
Gig at Jaervegen 373, Amsterdam, Holland
I was up 08:30 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast. I then drove to the gig with, Tim & Robin to sort the equipment out.
The rest arrived and we did our souncheck.
Came back to the hotel to relax.
Drove back to the gig, had a great show to a sold out crowd.
Met quite a few people after.
We then drove back to our hotel - I was in bed by 00:30.
Sunday 26 August 2018
Gig in VostertFeesten, Bree, Belgium
I woke at 08:00, cleaned up ready to go to the gig with Robin & Tim...
The Tremeloes, Mud 2, Albert Hammond, John Coghlan’s Quo were also on the show..
Spent all day at the gig sorting drums out..... Had a lovely afternoon with all the acts.
Spent most of the afternoon with John Coghlan - reminiscing about our time in the ‘70’s when Slade and Quo toured together a lot. Talking about our time in Australia 1973, having to have police escorts on our internal flights ‘cause of us stripping off on the, plane and our silly food fights!.....
We had a, great show to about 2,000 people..... Our dear friend Jean-Louis (a mega Belgian banker, and a massive fan) drove ‘H’, and myself back to our hotel.......
I was in bed by, 22:00.....
Gig in VostertFeesten, Bree, Belgium
I woke at 08:00, cleaned up ready to go to the gig with Robin & Tim...
The Tremeloes, Mud 2, Albert Hammond, John Coghlan’s Quo were also on the show..
Spent all day at the gig sorting drums out..... Had a lovely afternoon with all the acts.
Spent most of the afternoon with John Coghlan - reminiscing about our time in the ‘70’s when Slade and Quo toured together a lot. Talking about our time in Australia 1973, having to have police escorts on our internal flights ‘cause of us stripping off on the, plane and our silly food fights!.....
We had a, great show to about 2,000 people..... Our dear friend Jean-Louis (a mega Belgian banker, and a massive fan) drove ‘H’, and myself back to our hotel.......
I was in bed by, 22:00.....
Photos thanks to Gillie Coghlan
Thursday 30th August 2018
Checked in for my flight to Zurich via Frankfurt (aargh) There were three gate changes, but I ended up at the first one…..??????
We were a bit delayed as they didn’t have a plane,??????
Met everyone at Zurich Airport - drove about an hour to our hotel in Schweiz.
I just relaxed in my room. I was in bed by, 20:00.
Friday 31st August 2018
Riverside Open Air Gig, Riverside, Badstrasse, Aarburg, Switzerland
I was awake at 08:00.
Made tea before cleaning up.
I went to the gig early with Tim and Robin - spent all afternoon there sorting equipment out.
We had a great show to about 2,000 people.
Ten Years After were also on the bill. Drummer Ric Lee and myself spent time together, reminiscing about the time we toured together in the States during the ‘70’s.
I came back to our hotel, I was in bed by 21:30.
Checked in for my flight to Zurich via Frankfurt (aargh) There were three gate changes, but I ended up at the first one…..??????
We were a bit delayed as they didn’t have a plane,??????
Met everyone at Zurich Airport - drove about an hour to our hotel in Schweiz.
I just relaxed in my room. I was in bed by, 20:00.
Friday 31st August 2018
Riverside Open Air Gig, Riverside, Badstrasse, Aarburg, Switzerland
I was awake at 08:00.
Made tea before cleaning up.
I went to the gig early with Tim and Robin - spent all afternoon there sorting equipment out.
We had a great show to about 2,000 people.
Ten Years After were also on the bill. Drummer Ric Lee and myself spent time together, reminiscing about the time we toured together in the States during the ‘70’s.
I came back to our hotel, I was in bed by 21:30.
Sunday 9th September 2018
Secret Widget Festival, Hurtwood Polo Club, Surrey.
I was up 07:00 at my hotel at Stansted Airport.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast….
Checked out and made my way to Horsham by train.
There were no problems on my journey.
My hotel was right across the street from the station, but it was too early to check into my room. So I had to relax drinking gallons of tea….
I eventually got my room and unpacked, had some lunch at the hotel before getting a taxi to the gig.
Our crew had all the gear set up, but we couldn’t do a soundcheck as the first band, the Jackie Lynton Band, were about to start.
I managed to say hello and have a chat with drummer Kenny Jones who’s club we were playing in (or it used to be) - he was one of the organisers.
We had a, great gig to only about 500 people. Met a lot of people: Mick Avery (drummer with the Kinks) Patty - Rick Parfitt’s wife and Ginger Baker's daughter..
Made our way back to our hotel, A REALLY ENJOYABLE DAY.
I was in bed by 23:45.
Secret Widget Festival, Hurtwood Polo Club, Surrey.
I was up 07:00 at my hotel at Stansted Airport.
Cleaned up and went for breakfast….
Checked out and made my way to Horsham by train.
There were no problems on my journey.
My hotel was right across the street from the station, but it was too early to check into my room. So I had to relax drinking gallons of tea….
I eventually got my room and unpacked, had some lunch at the hotel before getting a taxi to the gig.
Our crew had all the gear set up, but we couldn’t do a soundcheck as the first band, the Jackie Lynton Band, were about to start.
I managed to say hello and have a chat with drummer Kenny Jones who’s club we were playing in (or it used to be) - he was one of the organisers.
We had a, great gig to only about 500 people. Met a lot of people: Mick Avery (drummer with the Kinks) Patty - Rick Parfitt’s wife and Ginger Baker's daughter..
Made our way back to our hotel, A REALLY ENJOYABLE DAY.
I was in bed by 23:45.
Photos: Gillie Coghlan
Thursday 13th September 2018
I spent the early afternoon in Cambridgeshire - meeting Frank Lea and his team at Dave Kemp's place. I haven't seen Frank for many years - but I was pleased to accept an invite to help Frank with a project that he is doing for his brother Jim (more will undoubtedly be revealed later)! It was a fun morning and great to meet up with Frank again and chat about old times. We all had birthday cake to celebrate my belated birthday and had a good laugh.
Later in the afternoon Paul Cookson arrived in Cambs to meet me to drive to his place in Retford.
I unpacked my things, Paul and myself went out to eat.
Came back to his place.
I was in bed by 22:20
I spent the early afternoon in Cambridgeshire - meeting Frank Lea and his team at Dave Kemp's place. I haven't seen Frank for many years - but I was pleased to accept an invite to help Frank with a project that he is doing for his brother Jim (more will undoubtedly be revealed later)! It was a fun morning and great to meet up with Frank again and chat about old times. We all had birthday cake to celebrate my belated birthday and had a good laugh.
Later in the afternoon Paul Cookson arrived in Cambs to meet me to drive to his place in Retford.
I unpacked my things, Paul and myself went out to eat.
Came back to his place.
I was in bed by 22:20
Friday 14th September 2018
I was awake at 08:00. Cleaned up, Paul and myself had breakfast together before driving to the recording studio.
Met Les there, we had a great afternoon - we recorded five songs in the space of about five hours!
After a great session, Paul had to go out with his family,
Les and myself went out to eat.
I was in bed by 22:00!
(Readers will find out more about the tracks recorded at Paul Cookson's Pies & Peas event in Retford on 29 September!
I was awake at 08:00. Cleaned up, Paul and myself had breakfast together before driving to the recording studio.
Met Les there, we had a great afternoon - we recorded five songs in the space of about five hours!
After a great session, Paul had to go out with his family,
Les and myself went out to eat.
I was in bed by 22:00!
(Readers will find out more about the tracks recorded at Paul Cookson's Pies & Peas event in Retford on 29 September!
Saturday 22nd September 2018
Gig at Butlins, Bognor Regis
I had made my way to Butlins on Friday and stayed in a chalet at the holiday camp on Friday night.
I stayed in bed until 10:00 - made tea and toast, went to sit outside WHEN, I saw a man from the next chalet ‘puking’ over the fence outside his front door!
I had to go inside and finish my breakfast there…..
I cleaned up and went to the, gig to sort my drums out.
I stayed there until it was time for our show.
We had a, great show to a sold out crowd.
Made my way back to the chalet expecting that man to be still be ‘puking’ - HE WASN’T…..
Mal and myself had tea together before I went to bed at 23:45
Gig at Butlins, Bognor Regis
I had made my way to Butlins on Friday and stayed in a chalet at the holiday camp on Friday night.
I stayed in bed until 10:00 - made tea and toast, went to sit outside WHEN, I saw a man from the next chalet ‘puking’ over the fence outside his front door!
I had to go inside and finish my breakfast there…..
I cleaned up and went to the, gig to sort my drums out.
I stayed there until it was time for our show.
We had a, great show to a sold out crowd.
Made my way back to the chalet expecting that man to be still be ‘puking’ - HE WASN’T…..
Mal and myself had tea together before I went to bed at 23:45
Friday 28th September 2018.
I was up at 09:00. (I'd stayed at Paul Cookson's house the night before).
Paul Cookson was already up - we had breakfast before going to the ‘Pies & Peas venue in Retford for rehearsals.
Les and myself did a little rehearsing, Paul joined us so we could do some filming a video of us miming to the Christmas song we wrote and recorded.
We had quite a few people joining in for the filming…….. A, great time we had.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:15.
Saturday 29th September 2018
I was up at 07:30.
Cleaned up and went for a cuppa.
Paul picked me up for our ‘Pies & Peas’ event.
Had a fantastic afternoon at the event………. Lots of people……..
Great fun and I got to tell lots of funny stories - and we had great laughs. Many people I knew were there. Dave Kemp and Barbara had to drive back home and couldn't hang around at the end when we were filming the Christmas video………
Glenn & Gwen drove me back to my hotel and we spent a couple of hours together.
Paul came over to join us before I went to bed at 23:30….
I was up at 09:00. (I'd stayed at Paul Cookson's house the night before).
Paul Cookson was already up - we had breakfast before going to the ‘Pies & Peas venue in Retford for rehearsals.
Les and myself did a little rehearsing, Paul joined us so we could do some filming a video of us miming to the Christmas song we wrote and recorded.
We had quite a few people joining in for the filming…….. A, great time we had.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:15.
Saturday 29th September 2018
I was up at 07:30.
Cleaned up and went for a cuppa.
Paul picked me up for our ‘Pies & Peas’ event.
Had a fantastic afternoon at the event………. Lots of people……..
Great fun and I got to tell lots of funny stories - and we had great laughs. Many people I knew were there. Dave Kemp and Barbara had to drive back home and couldn't hang around at the end when we were filming the Christmas video………
Glenn & Gwen drove me back to my hotel and we spent a couple of hours together.
Paul came over to join us before I went to bed at 23:30….
Wednesday 24th October 2018
I flew to Vienna via Brussels. I was a bit concerned as my flight was 45 minutes delayed.
BUT, I was OK,I made sandwiches in the lounge before leaving.
I met Mal at Vienna Airport - we flew to Czech Republic together. Met the others there. ‘H’s flight was delayed a couple of, hours from Birmingham,
We all eventually drove to Brno, checked in our hotel at 12:00 midnight.
Came to my room. There was a huge concrete pillar right in the middle of my room!
NOW in my drinking days, I was have woken up the next morning with bruises and black eyes through walking into it on my way to the bathroom,!!!!!!!!.
I was in bed by 00:30.
I flew to Vienna via Brussels. I was a bit concerned as my flight was 45 minutes delayed.
BUT, I was OK,I made sandwiches in the lounge before leaving.
I met Mal at Vienna Airport - we flew to Czech Republic together. Met the others there. ‘H’s flight was delayed a couple of, hours from Birmingham,
We all eventually drove to Brno, checked in our hotel at 12:00 midnight.
Came to my room. There was a huge concrete pillar right in the middle of my room!
NOW in my drinking days, I was have woken up the next morning with bruises and black eyes through walking into it on my way to the bathroom,!!!!!!!!.
I was in bed by 00:30.
Thursday 25th October 2018
Gig in Sono Music Club, Brno, Czech Republic
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:00.
Cleaned up and went for tea.....
We all had lunch together before I went to the gig to sort my drums out and have our soundcheck....
Came back to my room to relax.
Malcolm & Fran Skellington arrived from the UK.
Went back to the gig.....
Had a great show to about 2,000 people..
Came back to my room and was in bed by 22:45.
Gig in Sono Music Club, Brno, Czech Republic
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:00.
Cleaned up and went for tea.....
We all had lunch together before I went to the gig to sort my drums out and have our soundcheck....
Came back to my room to relax.
Malcolm & Fran Skellington arrived from the UK.
Went back to the gig.....
Had a great show to about 2,000 people..
Came back to my room and was in bed by 22:45.
Don and Fran Skellington
Friday 26th October 2018
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:30.
Wrote some diary pages for Dave.
I then cleaned up and packed my case.
I did a great interview over the phone for a Scottish newspaper to plug the show in Glasgow December 6th.
We all then drove about two and a half hours to Prague in a lovely coach...... Malcolm and Fran Skellington travelled with us.
Checked in our hotel - Mal and myself went for a walk round this beautiful city, having something to eat while we were out.
Came back to our hotel to relax - saw ‘H’ in the restaurant. I joined him for a cup of tea.
We had a really nice chat.
I came to my room..... "The French Connection” dubbed in the Czech language was on..... I turned it off.
I was in bed by 22:00
I stayed in bed ‘till 09:30.
Wrote some diary pages for Dave.
I then cleaned up and packed my case.
I did a great interview over the phone for a Scottish newspaper to plug the show in Glasgow December 6th.
We all then drove about two and a half hours to Prague in a lovely coach...... Malcolm and Fran Skellington travelled with us.
Checked in our hotel - Mal and myself went for a walk round this beautiful city, having something to eat while we were out.
Came back to our hotel to relax - saw ‘H’ in the restaurant. I joined him for a cup of tea.
We had a really nice chat.
I came to my room..... "The French Connection” dubbed in the Czech language was on..... I turned it off.
I was in bed by 22:00
Saturday 27th October 2018
Gig at Lucerna Palace, Prague, Czech Republic
I’m writing this page from the lounge in, Prague Airport before my flight.....
I actually stayed in bed ‘till 11:30.
Everyone was amazed..... So was I.
I cleaned up, went downstairs for tea.
I sat and relaxed with Malcolm & Fran Skellington, before walking to the gig.
I sorted all my drums out. Not much to do as it was the same equipment as the night before AND I had marked everything.
We did our soundcheck and relaxed back at our hotel.
Went back to the gig with, Malcolm & Fran.
Had a fantastic show. ( I think it was the, best show and reaction ever in Czech Republic) to about 2,000 people.
Came back to our hotel, had a few pots of tea before going to bed at 22:45.......
Gig at Lucerna Palace, Prague, Czech Republic
I’m writing this page from the lounge in, Prague Airport before my flight.....
I actually stayed in bed ‘till 11:30.
Everyone was amazed..... So was I.
I cleaned up, went downstairs for tea.
I sat and relaxed with Malcolm & Fran Skellington, before walking to the gig.
I sorted all my drums out. Not much to do as it was the same equipment as the night before AND I had marked everything.
We did our soundcheck and relaxed back at our hotel.
Went back to the gig with, Malcolm & Fran.
Had a fantastic show. ( I think it was the, best show and reaction ever in Czech Republic) to about 2,000 people.
Came back to our hotel, had a few pots of tea before going to bed at 22:45.......
Tuesday 30th October 2018
I was awake at, 09:00, in my rented apartment in Bury St Edmunds....
Called brother Derek for his birthday....
Cleaned up and went out for breakfast..
Came back to my apartment to clean up.
Went to the gig early (five minute walk) to sort my drums out....
After our show, I walked back to my apartment and was in bed by 23:30.
Wednesday 31st October 2018
I was awake at 05:45 - cleaned up and packed to get my train to Cambridge (with ‘H’) to meet Paul Cookson and Les Glover (my solo recording buddies).
We drove to our hotel in East Grinsted to check into our hotel.
We then drove to Helen Searle's office (my music solicitor) to sort out my solo recording situation.... ‘Don Powell and his Occasional Flames’
We had a great few hours going over things - because of time (not being able to set up promotion) we decided to delay the release ‘till next year..... Now we’ll have time to finish my album.... WE HAD A GREAT FEW HOURS.....
We then drove back to our hotel and went out to eat.
I was in bed by 21:45....
Thursday 1st November 2018
I was up 06:00, cleaned up and packed.
Met Paul and Les for breakfast.
We drove to Paul's housie in, Retford. Sally, Pauls wife made us tea before I caught my train to Skegness.
Raced and checked in my hotel before racing to see the Queen film 'Bohemian Rhapsody. GREAT FILM, the camera work is excellent....The actors who played the bands characters are SO GOOD - especially Freddie.... Not too sure about the many GAY INNUENDOS (good title for an album.... Innuendo)!!!!
Had tea in my hotel bar I was in bed by 23:15.............
Saturday 2nd November 2018
Gig in Butlins Skegness
I stayed in bed ‘till 10:00.
Packed and cleaned up.
I checked out of my hotel and made my way to Butlins Holiday Park.
My chalet wasn’t ready, So I went back to town to buy DVD’s and, CD’s.
I got a Star Wars Collection and the Led Zeppelin CD ‘How The West Was Won’
When I got back to the camp, my chalet was ready...
I unpacked and went for something to eat. It was freezing outside.
Came back to my chalet, relaxed with copious amounts of tea before going to bed 22:15,
I was awake at, 09:00, in my rented apartment in Bury St Edmunds....
Called brother Derek for his birthday....
Cleaned up and went out for breakfast..
Came back to my apartment to clean up.
Went to the gig early (five minute walk) to sort my drums out....
After our show, I walked back to my apartment and was in bed by 23:30.
Wednesday 31st October 2018
I was awake at 05:45 - cleaned up and packed to get my train to Cambridge (with ‘H’) to meet Paul Cookson and Les Glover (my solo recording buddies).
We drove to our hotel in East Grinsted to check into our hotel.
We then drove to Helen Searle's office (my music solicitor) to sort out my solo recording situation.... ‘Don Powell and his Occasional Flames’
We had a great few hours going over things - because of time (not being able to set up promotion) we decided to delay the release ‘till next year..... Now we’ll have time to finish my album.... WE HAD A GREAT FEW HOURS.....
We then drove back to our hotel and went out to eat.
I was in bed by 21:45....
Thursday 1st November 2018
I was up 06:00, cleaned up and packed.
Met Paul and Les for breakfast.
We drove to Paul's housie in, Retford. Sally, Pauls wife made us tea before I caught my train to Skegness.
Raced and checked in my hotel before racing to see the Queen film 'Bohemian Rhapsody. GREAT FILM, the camera work is excellent....The actors who played the bands characters are SO GOOD - especially Freddie.... Not too sure about the many GAY INNUENDOS (good title for an album.... Innuendo)!!!!
Had tea in my hotel bar I was in bed by 23:15.............
Saturday 2nd November 2018
Gig in Butlins Skegness
I stayed in bed ‘till 10:00.
Packed and cleaned up.
I checked out of my hotel and made my way to Butlins Holiday Park.
My chalet wasn’t ready, So I went back to town to buy DVD’s and, CD’s.
I got a Star Wars Collection and the Led Zeppelin CD ‘How The West Was Won’
When I got back to the camp, my chalet was ready...
I unpacked and went for something to eat. It was freezing outside.
Came back to my chalet, relaxed with copious amounts of tea before going to bed 22:15,
Tuesday 6th November 2018
Gig in October Palace, Kiev, Ukraine
I stayed in bed ‘till, 11:35.
Made tea and cleaned up.
Went downstairs to see what was going on.
I went to the, gig with, Robin and Phil.Spent all day there,
We did our soundcheck and stayed as, it was an early show,
A beautiful old 'Albert Hall' style building.
We had a great show to about 1,000 people (sold out) Fantastic reception......
Came back to our hotel. I didn’t go out to eat with everyone.
I was in bed by 21:30.
It’s always very early shows over here
Wednesday 7th November 2018
Gig at Philamonia Hall, Odessa, Ukraine
Got up at, 04:30,
Cleaned up and packed, went downstairs to meet everyone.
Drove to the airport to fly to Odessa.
Checked in our hotel, relaxed before going to the Odessa Philarmonia Hall to sort the equipment out before our soundcheck.
Stayed at the gig and had a great show to a sold out crowd of about 750.
Got back to our hotel went to bed 22:00.
Gig in October Palace, Kiev, Ukraine
I stayed in bed ‘till, 11:35.
Made tea and cleaned up.
Went downstairs to see what was going on.
I went to the, gig with, Robin and Phil.Spent all day there,
We did our soundcheck and stayed as, it was an early show,
A beautiful old 'Albert Hall' style building.
We had a great show to about 1,000 people (sold out) Fantastic reception......
Came back to our hotel. I didn’t go out to eat with everyone.
I was in bed by 21:30.
It’s always very early shows over here
Wednesday 7th November 2018
Gig at Philamonia Hall, Odessa, Ukraine
Got up at, 04:30,
Cleaned up and packed, went downstairs to meet everyone.
Drove to the airport to fly to Odessa.
Checked in our hotel, relaxed before going to the Odessa Philarmonia Hall to sort the equipment out before our soundcheck.
Stayed at the gig and had a great show to a sold out crowd of about 750.
Got back to our hotel went to bed 22:00.
Monday 19th November 2018
Made my way to the airport to find my flight to Frankfurt (argh) had been delayed 35mins…
When I eventually got there, I couldn’t have been any further away from my gate for my flight to Tel Aviv.
I had to race through the airport to my gate, only to find my next flight was delayed as well.
I had about a four hour flight to Tel Aviv, and it was wonderful, my luggage also got there.!!!!!
I spoke to Abbie about my transport, she told me to get a cab, it would be paid for when I arrived at my hotel…
When I got there Abbie, Rob & Phil were outside smoking, Sweet came back to the hotel from a restaurant, more or less at the same time.
I checked into my room and was in bed by 23:00
Tuesday 20th November 2018
Gig in Tel Aviv, Israel (Slade's first ever trip to Israel)
I stayed in bed ‘till 10:00.
Made tea and relaxed before cleaning up.
Went downstairs for more tea before going to the gig with, our crew, Sweet's crew were there also. I sorted my drums out before everyone arrived to do soundchecks.
We had a great show to about 500 people.
Mal, ‘H’ and myself drove back to our hotel, Mal and myself had tea together before, I went to, bed at 01:45.
Wednesday 21st November 2018
Free day….
I was awake, 09:30. Made tea and relaxed.
Met Mal downstairs - we had a lovely afternoon walking all along the sea-front, stopping for tea and snacks many times….
We watched many military planes and helicopters flying towards ???????
Mal and myself went for a Chinese meal (in Tel Aviv ????)
I went to bed at 22:30.
Made my way to the airport to find my flight to Frankfurt (argh) had been delayed 35mins…
When I eventually got there, I couldn’t have been any further away from my gate for my flight to Tel Aviv.
I had to race through the airport to my gate, only to find my next flight was delayed as well.
I had about a four hour flight to Tel Aviv, and it was wonderful, my luggage also got there.!!!!!
I spoke to Abbie about my transport, she told me to get a cab, it would be paid for when I arrived at my hotel…
When I got there Abbie, Rob & Phil were outside smoking, Sweet came back to the hotel from a restaurant, more or less at the same time.
I checked into my room and was in bed by 23:00
Tuesday 20th November 2018
Gig in Tel Aviv, Israel (Slade's first ever trip to Israel)
I stayed in bed ‘till 10:00.
Made tea and relaxed before cleaning up.
Went downstairs for more tea before going to the gig with, our crew, Sweet's crew were there also. I sorted my drums out before everyone arrived to do soundchecks.
We had a great show to about 500 people.
Mal, ‘H’ and myself drove back to our hotel, Mal and myself had tea together before, I went to, bed at 01:45.
Wednesday 21st November 2018
Free day….
I was awake, 09:30. Made tea and relaxed.
Met Mal downstairs - we had a lovely afternoon walking all along the sea-front, stopping for tea and snacks many times….
We watched many military planes and helicopters flying towards ???????
Mal and myself went for a Chinese meal (in Tel Aviv ????)
I went to bed at 22:30.
Don's photos: Sweet's soundcheck, Slade's crew onstage, Don's walk along the beach in Tel Aviv and the view from his hotel bedroom.
Tuesday 4th December 2018
I was awake 06:30 before my alarm went off at 07:00.
Cleaned up and packed.
Checked out of the hotel and made my way to Barnes for our usual Christmas 'Rock ‘n’Roll’ lunch.
As normal, we had a great time. Sat by John and Gillie Coghlan also Patty - Rick Parfitt’s wife. A gig turn out this time including Madeline Bell from Blue Mink, Suzi Quatro, Mari Wilson and Linda Lewis.
Nod wasn’t there - he’s missed two now - neither was Bruce Welch.
From there I made my way to Kings X for my train to Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Nice train journey - checked in my hotel and was in bed by 23:15.
Wednesday 5th December 2018
Gig at O2 Academy, Newcastle
I woke 10:00 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up and went downstairs.
Had tea with Robin before I went shopping for drum-stick tape.
Spent all day sorting drums out with Phil ( my new roadie).
Had a great show to an almost sell-out crowd.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:30.
Thursday 6th December 2018
Gig at O2 ABC Glasgow
I woke at 07:00 - before my alarm went off 08:00
Cleaned up and packed before going for breakfast.
Checked out of my hotel and made my way to the station to get my train to Glasgow.
Easy journey,
I went straight to the gig to sort my drums out. Had our sound-check before a great gig to about 600 people.
Checked in my hotel. I was in bed by 10:45.
Friday 7th December 2018
Q&A at The Britisih Music Experience, Liverpool
Got up, 08:00 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up - realised it's 45 years to the day since ‘MERRY XMAS EVERYBODY’ was released……
Went for breakfast Mal and myself caught the train to Liverpool.
Found out ‘H’ missed his connection to Liverpool and almost ended up down South…… !!!!!!!!!!!
Checked in our hotel I went shopping for toiletries.
Paul from Liverpool British Music Experience exhibition came to the hotel to collect me. He showed me to the exhibition in the Cunard Building - and showed me all round. Later I did a Q&A there …. A great time.
The exhibition team took me out after around BEATLE memorabilia places ‘The Cavern’ etc where I got up and played 'Merry Xmas’ with the live band…. WONDERFUL..
Came back to my hotel and had tea with Abbie, Suzanne, Tim & Phil….
I was in bed by 01:20.
Saturday 8th December 2018
Gig at the O2 Academy, Liverpool
I stayed in bed ‘till, 08:30.
Cleaned up and went downstairs.
Spoke to dear friend Terry McCusker (one of the authors of ‘Ringo Starr- The Beatles Beat.) which I did the foreword to. Also spoke to Les Glover - will see him later.
Terry took me to ‘The Albert Docks’ for lunch.... and more Beatle memorabilia. FANTASTIC!
Did our soundcheck - had a fantastic show to a sold out crowd.
Had a drink with Les (singer, bass-player who I’m recording my solo stuff with) and Lise.
I was in bed by 12:30.
Sunday 9th December 2018
Gig at Willaim Aston Hall, Wrexham
I was awake, 07:00
Cleaned up and packed
Went for breakfast before getting my train to Wrexham.
Went straight to the gig to sort my drums out. Also I met a fan who had travelled from Australia to see us - and had time for an interview with Gareth Jones (Gas Top) for his radio show.
Had a great show (took some warming up).
Checked in my hotel and was in bed by 12:00 midnight
Thursday 13th December 2018
I made my way to Oxford - checked in my hotel, went to the restaurant to eat....
Relaxed in my room to write e-mails.....
Had a nice Christmas e-mail from Francis Rossi.... Thank you Francis!
I went to my bed by 22:44.
Friday 14th December 2018
Before I start, it would have been my Dad’s 100th Birthday today.........
I stayed in bed ‘till 11:30...... had a few more messages from Francis Rossi..... Ha.I made tea before cleaning up.
I went into town to post my signed drum skin off to, Donn ( spelt correctly...) Bennett - the dealer specialist in Seattle who was instrumental in me being able to play drums with Ringo Starr and his band.
I made my way to the gig to check my drums out - only John Berry and myself did our sound check..
We had a great show to about 500 people.
I got back to, our hotel and was in bed by 23:45.
I was awake 06:30 before my alarm went off at 07:00.
Cleaned up and packed.
Checked out of the hotel and made my way to Barnes for our usual Christmas 'Rock ‘n’Roll’ lunch.
As normal, we had a great time. Sat by John and Gillie Coghlan also Patty - Rick Parfitt’s wife. A gig turn out this time including Madeline Bell from Blue Mink, Suzi Quatro, Mari Wilson and Linda Lewis.
Nod wasn’t there - he’s missed two now - neither was Bruce Welch.
From there I made my way to Kings X for my train to Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Nice train journey - checked in my hotel and was in bed by 23:15.
Wednesday 5th December 2018
Gig at O2 Academy, Newcastle
I woke 10:00 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up and went downstairs.
Had tea with Robin before I went shopping for drum-stick tape.
Spent all day sorting drums out with Phil ( my new roadie).
Had a great show to an almost sell-out crowd.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:30.
Thursday 6th December 2018
Gig at O2 ABC Glasgow
I woke at 07:00 - before my alarm went off 08:00
Cleaned up and packed before going for breakfast.
Checked out of my hotel and made my way to the station to get my train to Glasgow.
Easy journey,
I went straight to the gig to sort my drums out. Had our sound-check before a great gig to about 600 people.
Checked in my hotel. I was in bed by 10:45.
Friday 7th December 2018
Q&A at The Britisih Music Experience, Liverpool
Got up, 08:00 when my alarm went off.
Cleaned up - realised it's 45 years to the day since ‘MERRY XMAS EVERYBODY’ was released……
Went for breakfast Mal and myself caught the train to Liverpool.
Found out ‘H’ missed his connection to Liverpool and almost ended up down South…… !!!!!!!!!!!
Checked in our hotel I went shopping for toiletries.
Paul from Liverpool British Music Experience exhibition came to the hotel to collect me. He showed me to the exhibition in the Cunard Building - and showed me all round. Later I did a Q&A there …. A great time.
The exhibition team took me out after around BEATLE memorabilia places ‘The Cavern’ etc where I got up and played 'Merry Xmas’ with the live band…. WONDERFUL..
Came back to my hotel and had tea with Abbie, Suzanne, Tim & Phil….
I was in bed by 01:20.
Saturday 8th December 2018
Gig at the O2 Academy, Liverpool
I stayed in bed ‘till, 08:30.
Cleaned up and went downstairs.
Spoke to dear friend Terry McCusker (one of the authors of ‘Ringo Starr- The Beatles Beat.) which I did the foreword to. Also spoke to Les Glover - will see him later.
Terry took me to ‘The Albert Docks’ for lunch.... and more Beatle memorabilia. FANTASTIC!
Did our soundcheck - had a fantastic show to a sold out crowd.
Had a drink with Les (singer, bass-player who I’m recording my solo stuff with) and Lise.
I was in bed by 12:30.
Sunday 9th December 2018
Gig at Willaim Aston Hall, Wrexham
I was awake, 07:00
Cleaned up and packed
Went for breakfast before getting my train to Wrexham.
Went straight to the gig to sort my drums out. Also I met a fan who had travelled from Australia to see us - and had time for an interview with Gareth Jones (Gas Top) for his radio show.
Had a great show (took some warming up).
Checked in my hotel and was in bed by 12:00 midnight
Thursday 13th December 2018
I made my way to Oxford - checked in my hotel, went to the restaurant to eat....
Relaxed in my room to write e-mails.....
Had a nice Christmas e-mail from Francis Rossi.... Thank you Francis!
I went to my bed by 22:44.
Friday 14th December 2018
Before I start, it would have been my Dad’s 100th Birthday today.........
I stayed in bed ‘till 11:30...... had a few more messages from Francis Rossi..... Ha.I made tea before cleaning up.
I went into town to post my signed drum skin off to, Donn ( spelt correctly...) Bennett - the dealer specialist in Seattle who was instrumental in me being able to play drums with Ringo Starr and his band.
I made my way to the gig to check my drums out - only John Berry and myself did our sound check..
We had a great show to about 500 people.
I got back to, our hotel and was in bed by 23:45.
Saturday 15th December 2018
Gig at The Welly, Hull
I was awake at 06:00.
Cleaned up and, wrote some diary pages for Dave.
Cleaned up and packed before going for breakfast.
Made my way to the station. I managed to get an earlier train - the guard wasn’t too happy as my ticket wasn’t valid on that particular train - I tried to pretend I was a Japanese tourist and didn’t understand - THAT DIDN’T WORK EITHER.!!!!!!!
I still had to wait for my room to be serviced at my hotel in Hull.
MUD drummer Phil was also there - we had tea together until I could get my room…
I made my way to the gig to check my drums out.
We had a fantastic gig to about, 600 people.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:00.
Sunday 16th December 2018
Gig at O2 Academy, Leicester
Got up when my alarm went off at 07:00.
Cleaned up and packed - made my way to the, station to get my train to Leicester.
Sorted my drums out - John Berry and myself did the band's soundcheck.
We had a great show to about 500 people. Brother Derek and his wife Chris were there.
They drove me back to my hotel in Wolverhampton.
I was in bed by 01:30.
Monday 17th December 2018
I stayed in bed ‘till 11:15.
I called ‘H’s sister Carol in Cyprus for a chat - we had a lovely long reminiscing talk..
I went DVD shopping… for ‘Joy’ with Robert De Niro & Jennifer Lawrence…. I also bought the CD of the ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ soundtrack and a Buddy Holly CD.
I then went to my old school mate Mike Brookes' music shop ‘One Way Music’ for a cuppa.
Had dinner at Brother Derek’s and Chris’s before Derek and myself went to see Sweet at The Robin.
We had a great evening with all the guys. Derek dropped me back at my hotel. I was in bed by 12:00.
Tuesday 18th December 2018
I was awake at 08:00.
Answered my e-mails before cleaning up. I called Andy Richardson from Wolverhampton’s Express & Star newspaper.
We will have lunch later.
Went round town before meeting Andy - we had a lovely lunch and talked about everything..
I relaxed back at my hotel before meeting Lenny Beddows - guitarist with Danny Cannon & the Ramrods - a group from Bilston in 1960/1 (they’re responsible for me starting to play drums).
We had a lovely reminiscing few hours together…..
I had an early night that night.
Wednesday 19th December 2018
Got up ????.
Cleaned up and went shopping for more DVD’s.
Met sister Carol and sister Mash for lunch at Marks & Spencers …I also had tea with Vicky, Chris Selby & Ross Hawkins….
Glenn & Gwen took me to put flowers on Mom & Dad's grave…
We then spent the night at The Trumpet - I got up and played with the Jazz-Band…. (they made me play with brushes ????).
The once resident pianist, Reg Kerle, came to the pub to have a drink with me…..
Thursday 20th December 2018
Gig at The Robin 2, Bilston
I was awake at 09:30 - cleaned up and packed to check out.
I went into town again…. Dave Kemp called for a chat - I will let him know details ‘bout tomorrow’s gig in London when I know details…..
Got to The Robin - checked into my room, and we did our sound check before we all ate there…
Old school mate Bill Law called for a chat.
We had a, fantastic gig to a sold out crowd.
I was in bed by 12:00 midnight.
Friday 21st December 2018
Gig at ULU, London
Git up when my alarm went off 08:00.
Cleaned up and packed and caught the train to London with Mal.
Checked in our hotel and went to sort equipment out for our soundcheck.
We had the most fantastic show! I think that’s the best reaction we have ever had in London - maybe even better than the Music Machine in Camden with the original line-up.
I was in bed by 23:50.
Saturday 22nd December 2018
Gig in Manchester, O2 Academy
I was up at 06:30.
Packed and cleaned up before going for breakfast.
Joined ‘H’ for tea.
I caught an earlier train to Manchester.
Too early to check into my room - relaxed with more tea sitting in the, bar.
Wrote to Paul Burgess (10CC’s drummer). Ric Lee (Ten Years After’s drummer) as I will be seeing them both later at the gig.
I then wrote to Gregg Bissonnette (Ringo’s drummer), Donn Bennett (a drum dealer in Seattle, who was responsible for me getting to play with Ringo).
I spent all afternoon at the gig. Paul Burgess and, Ric Lee were there - also Paul Cookson (who I’ve been writing and recording with). A guy called Andy made a video of Paul, Les and myself playing together.
We had a great show…..
I was in bed by 23:45.
Gig at The Welly, Hull
I was awake at 06:00.
Cleaned up and, wrote some diary pages for Dave.
Cleaned up and packed before going for breakfast.
Made my way to the station. I managed to get an earlier train - the guard wasn’t too happy as my ticket wasn’t valid on that particular train - I tried to pretend I was a Japanese tourist and didn’t understand - THAT DIDN’T WORK EITHER.!!!!!!!
I still had to wait for my room to be serviced at my hotel in Hull.
MUD drummer Phil was also there - we had tea together until I could get my room…
I made my way to the gig to check my drums out.
We had a fantastic gig to about, 600 people.
Got back to my hotel and was in bed by 23:00.
Sunday 16th December 2018
Gig at O2 Academy, Leicester
Got up when my alarm went off at 07:00.
Cleaned up and packed - made my way to the, station to get my train to Leicester.
Sorted my drums out - John Berry and myself did the band's soundcheck.
We had a great show to about 500 people. Brother Derek and his wife Chris were there.
They drove me back to my hotel in Wolverhampton.
I was in bed by 01:30.
Monday 17th December 2018
I stayed in bed ‘till 11:15.
I called ‘H’s sister Carol in Cyprus for a chat - we had a lovely long reminiscing talk..
I went DVD shopping… for ‘Joy’ with Robert De Niro & Jennifer Lawrence…. I also bought the CD of the ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ soundtrack and a Buddy Holly CD.
I then went to my old school mate Mike Brookes' music shop ‘One Way Music’ for a cuppa.
Had dinner at Brother Derek’s and Chris’s before Derek and myself went to see Sweet at The Robin.
We had a great evening with all the guys. Derek dropped me back at my hotel. I was in bed by 12:00.
Tuesday 18th December 2018
I was awake at 08:00.
Answered my e-mails before cleaning up. I called Andy Richardson from Wolverhampton’s Express & Star newspaper.
We will have lunch later.
Went round town before meeting Andy - we had a lovely lunch and talked about everything..
I relaxed back at my hotel before meeting Lenny Beddows - guitarist with Danny Cannon & the Ramrods - a group from Bilston in 1960/1 (they’re responsible for me starting to play drums).
We had a lovely reminiscing few hours together…..
I had an early night that night.
Wednesday 19th December 2018
Got up ????.
Cleaned up and went shopping for more DVD’s.
Met sister Carol and sister Mash for lunch at Marks & Spencers …I also had tea with Vicky, Chris Selby & Ross Hawkins….
Glenn & Gwen took me to put flowers on Mom & Dad's grave…
We then spent the night at The Trumpet - I got up and played with the Jazz-Band…. (they made me play with brushes ????).
The once resident pianist, Reg Kerle, came to the pub to have a drink with me…..
Thursday 20th December 2018
Gig at The Robin 2, Bilston
I was awake at 09:30 - cleaned up and packed to check out.
I went into town again…. Dave Kemp called for a chat - I will let him know details ‘bout tomorrow’s gig in London when I know details…..
Got to The Robin - checked into my room, and we did our sound check before we all ate there…
Old school mate Bill Law called for a chat.
We had a, fantastic gig to a sold out crowd.
I was in bed by 12:00 midnight.
Friday 21st December 2018
Gig at ULU, London
Git up when my alarm went off 08:00.
Cleaned up and packed and caught the train to London with Mal.
Checked in our hotel and went to sort equipment out for our soundcheck.
We had the most fantastic show! I think that’s the best reaction we have ever had in London - maybe even better than the Music Machine in Camden with the original line-up.
I was in bed by 23:50.
Saturday 22nd December 2018
Gig in Manchester, O2 Academy
I was up at 06:30.
Packed and cleaned up before going for breakfast.
Joined ‘H’ for tea.
I caught an earlier train to Manchester.
Too early to check into my room - relaxed with more tea sitting in the, bar.
Wrote to Paul Burgess (10CC’s drummer). Ric Lee (Ten Years After’s drummer) as I will be seeing them both later at the gig.
I then wrote to Gregg Bissonnette (Ringo’s drummer), Donn Bennett (a drum dealer in Seattle, who was responsible for me getting to play with Ringo).
I spent all afternoon at the gig. Paul Burgess and, Ric Lee were there - also Paul Cookson (who I’ve been writing and recording with). A guy called Andy made a video of Paul, Les and myself playing together.
We had a great show…..
I was in bed by 23:45.