OLD NEWS ARCHIVE 4
Don reveals the 5 Things He Can't Live Without...
Don featured in a Daily Express article today (Friday 19th December) about '5 Things I Can't Live Without' by Lucy Benyon... Don picked up a copy of the newspaper at Stansted Airport, as he caught a flight home to Denmark.
Don returns home for a rest over Christmas with his family in Silkeborg, Denmark. The sell out Slade gig at the Robin in Bilston was Don's last gig of the year...
Don returns home for a rest over Christmas with his family in Silkeborg, Denmark. The sell out Slade gig at the Robin in Bilston was Don's last gig of the year...
Folks, we have been informed that Slade's gig at the Robin in Bilston on Thursday 18 December is totally sold out. There will be no tickets for sale at the door, apart from any possible returns on the day...
On Friday 19 December Don will feature in the Daily Express newspaper. He has been interviewed by Lucy Beynon for a feature called "The Five Things I Can't Live Without".
On Friday 19 December Don will feature in the Daily Express newspaper. He has been interviewed by Lucy Beynon for a feature called "The Five Things I Can't Live Without".
The Robin in Bilston SOLD OUT and Don's in the Daily Express...
'Merry Xmas Everybody' up to No. 56 in UK singles chart
Slade's classic 'Merry Xmas Everybody' went up to no. 56 in the UK Singles Chart on Sunday 14th December.....
Don and Dave Hill on 'Rewind The Christmas Hits' - Saturday 20 December
Don and Dave Hill recently recorded footage for the Channel 4 show 'Rewind The Christmas Hits' - which will be shown on Saturday 20th December between 8pm - 9.30pm. The show uncovers the real stories behind the Christmas Hits... It also features The Darkness, Status Quo and Jona Lewie.
(Show repeated the following day - Sunday 21 December at 10pm)
(Show repeated the following day - Sunday 21 December at 10pm)
Don on Keith Middleton's Radio Show - Saturday 13 December
Don guested on Keith Middleton's Late Show (70's and 80's Extravaganza) on Saturday 13 December on WM 95.6 radio.
You can catch the programme, available for the next four weeks, on iPlayer here. (Don's interview starts at 2:16).
You can catch the programme, available for the next four weeks, on iPlayer here. (Don's interview starts at 2:16).
'Merry Xmas Everybody' back again
Never in doubt...
'Merry Xmas Everybody' back in the UK Top 100 at #68 this week (Sunday 7 December).
Predicted to rise in the charts next week.
'Merry Xmas Everybody' back in the UK Top 100 at #68 this week (Sunday 7 December).
Predicted to rise in the charts next week.
Last few tickets remaining for The Robin gig...
Slade's last gig before Christmas this year will be a 'home-town' gig for Don at The Robin in Bilston. It is on Thursday 18 December.
The gig has almost sold out. If you intend going you need to reserve your tickets by booking them by phone (no internet bookings are now being accepted). The booking line is 01902 401211.
To see details of the gig click here.
The gig has almost sold out. If you intend going you need to reserve your tickets by booking them by phone (no internet bookings are now being accepted). The booking line is 01902 401211.
To see details of the gig click here.
BBC Radio Leeds - One to One
We are pleased to print a transcript for a 'One to One' questionnaire that Don completed recently for BBC Radio Leeds.
Childhood and Early Significant Events?
Moving to our first family home together, Mom, Dad, brother Derek, sisters Carol and Marilyn. I was 4 years old. I’ve suffered with deafness since a baby, playing drums hasn’t helped! I had a fantastic time at school. I boxed for my home town, Bilston. My parents always encouraged me in everything, helped pay for my first drums… For that I promised them my first gold disc. 18 years later, I kept my promise…….
What happened when you finished school?
I went to college to study Metallurgy. During that time, I found drums. My education went out of the window. I’ve always said since then my education has been travelling the world experiencing different cultures…..
Career Path?
From what I learned at College, I got a job in an Iron Foundry Laboratory - practicing metallurgy for about 18 months. With my first group, we were offered a month's stint in a German club in Dortmund (my factory life then came to an end) for £14 a week each.
Relationship History and Marital Status?
The page isn’t big enough...
Wonderfully happily married now to Hanne and stepfather to her 3 children, Anne Kirstine, Emilie & Andreas. Became step grandfather to Emilie’s son August.
Big Moments and Events that stick in your mind?
Winning a Gold Medal for a cross-country race whilst running for my county, Staffordshire (West Midlands). Getting our first No1 for ‘Coz I Luv You’ in 1971.
Your Biggest Regret / Worst Experience?
Not carrying on learning to play guitar.
After regaining consciousness from a 5 day coma, and being told what had happened….. Me being involved in an horrific car accident which took the, life of my then girlfriend.
Tell us something people may not already know about you…
I have no sense of smell or taste whatsoever.
Likes / Dislikes?
Hate bad time keepers (I am a drummer after all).
I love sitting having dinner with, all my family at the table.
I relax, and unwind in the gym every morning.
I love music and films and walks in the forest where I live.
Music Selection - ten songs that are special or important to your life.
1. Think It Over - Buddy Holly - first record I played drums to…..
2. Something Else - Eddie Cochran.
3. Please Please Me - The Beatles.
4. Stay - The Hollies.
5. Sunshine of Your Love - Cream.
6. One Of These Nights - Eagles.
7. Fooled Around And Fell In Love - Elvin Bishop.
8. Tush - ZZ Top.
9. Rock.N.Roll - Led Zeppelin.
10. Handle With Care - The Travelling Wilbury’s
Childhood and Early Significant Events?
Moving to our first family home together, Mom, Dad, brother Derek, sisters Carol and Marilyn. I was 4 years old. I’ve suffered with deafness since a baby, playing drums hasn’t helped! I had a fantastic time at school. I boxed for my home town, Bilston. My parents always encouraged me in everything, helped pay for my first drums… For that I promised them my first gold disc. 18 years later, I kept my promise…….
What happened when you finished school?
I went to college to study Metallurgy. During that time, I found drums. My education went out of the window. I’ve always said since then my education has been travelling the world experiencing different cultures…..
Career Path?
From what I learned at College, I got a job in an Iron Foundry Laboratory - practicing metallurgy for about 18 months. With my first group, we were offered a month's stint in a German club in Dortmund (my factory life then came to an end) for £14 a week each.
Relationship History and Marital Status?
The page isn’t big enough...
Wonderfully happily married now to Hanne and stepfather to her 3 children, Anne Kirstine, Emilie & Andreas. Became step grandfather to Emilie’s son August.
Big Moments and Events that stick in your mind?
Winning a Gold Medal for a cross-country race whilst running for my county, Staffordshire (West Midlands). Getting our first No1 for ‘Coz I Luv You’ in 1971.
Your Biggest Regret / Worst Experience?
Not carrying on learning to play guitar.
After regaining consciousness from a 5 day coma, and being told what had happened….. Me being involved in an horrific car accident which took the, life of my then girlfriend.
Tell us something people may not already know about you…
I have no sense of smell or taste whatsoever.
Likes / Dislikes?
Hate bad time keepers (I am a drummer after all).
I love sitting having dinner with, all my family at the table.
I relax, and unwind in the gym every morning.
I love music and films and walks in the forest where I live.
Music Selection - ten songs that are special or important to your life.
1. Think It Over - Buddy Holly - first record I played drums to…..
2. Something Else - Eddie Cochran.
3. Please Please Me - The Beatles.
4. Stay - The Hollies.
5. Sunshine of Your Love - Cream.
6. One Of These Nights - Eagles.
7. Fooled Around And Fell In Love - Elvin Bishop.
8. Tush - ZZ Top.
9. Rock.N.Roll - Led Zeppelin.
10. Handle With Care - The Travelling Wilbury’s
Don on Global Drum Network podcast
Don has been interviewed for the Global Drum Network...
He features on the website's latest podcast (episode 6).
You can hear the interview / or download it to your own mp3 player.
To download - click here - and look for Episode 6
To listen - click on the player below.
He features on the website's latest podcast (episode 6).
You can hear the interview / or download it to your own mp3 player.
To download - click here - and look for Episode 6
To listen - click on the player below.
Lost 'Coz I Luv You' footage from Belgium found
It's always good when 'lost' tv footage emerges after many years... Thanks go to Martin Barden from Australia who found this clip of Slade performing 'Coz I Luv You' on Belgian TV's Popshop on 23 December 1971... Not much coverage of Don - but still a great performance. Click here to see it.
Photos emerge of Don in the Scouts...
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Most Slade fans know that Don learned how to play drums when he was in the Boy Scouts - at the 6th Bilston unit.
Don recently went back to visit his old unit - and presented a new annual award - The Don Powell Achievement Award. It was at this ceremony that Darren Parton, the Scout District Commissioner, told Don that he had uncovered some photos that were taken when Don, and his brother Derek, were in the Scouts.... Don was absolutely amazed - as he had never seen these pictures before. The results are printed below with Don's comments. |
Don interview in the Bilston magazine
Don features on the front cover, and in an interview, in the Bilston Magazine that is published on 28 November 2014.
Many thanks to Simon Archer who has allowed us permission to print the interview...
www.bilstonmagazine.co.uk
YOUR VERY OWN BILSTON BOY MADE GOOD
Don Powell is the drummer with Slade. Yes, they’re still very much alive and kicking, albeit minus two of the original line-up and they still play to massive audiences (18,000 turned up to watch them in Moscow recently) mainly in the UK and Europe.
For younger readers, Slade were a glam rock band (you’d call them boy band now) who were known for their outlandish and extravagant costumes. Their best known hit, by far, [you know the one] still provides members with a sizeable royalty cheque every April, but they had 5 other number 1s as well, including ‘Come On Feel The Noise’ and ‘Mama We’re All Crazee Now’ [They don’t make ‘em like they used to!]
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of the ‘N’ Betweens, the forerunner to Ambrose Slade and then the much more familiar Slade, who went on to have a series of worldwide hits in the 60’s and 70’s.
Don, as many of you may know, was born and brought up in Stowlawn. He’s a very proud Bilstonian and was in town to attend many of the events that commemorated the start of the Great War back in August.
The Bilston Magazine catches up with Don during a recent visit to the town, where he popped into Moseley Park School for a look around his old stomping ground.
BM: What are your childhood memories of Bilston?
DP: Very warm ones! Being a member of the Saturday Morning Cinema Club at the Odeon (almost next to the, Spread Eagle pub) opposite the Town Hall. Going to, school at, Etheridge Secondary Modern Boys School.
As a teenager working for Picknells Green Grocers in the outdoor market, loading and unloading boxes of fruit and vegetables, all for 10 Bob a, week, (50pence.)
Also of Bilston Police Boxing Club and Bilston Athletic Club where I was a, member.
And a wonderful atmosphere in the, town.
BM: What was your address in Stowlawn?
DP: 54 Green Park Avenue (now Drive) Stowlawn Estate, Bilston, Staffs (now West Midlands) WV14 6EB.
BM: Is there a ‘Blue Plaque’ on the wall now? If not, why?
DP: Ha, you’ll have to ask the authorities..............
BM: Which school(s) did you attend?
DP: Villiers Primary and Junior School. Then Etheridge Secondary Modern Boys School and finally Wednesbury Technical College (they didn’t have a Metallurgy course at Bilston Technical College)
BM: Can you recall any teachers/mates?
DP: At Etheridge, Graham Swinnerton from when we were 11 years old. He later became a roadie for us and Tour Manager. We are still very best friends today. Keith Parton and Mike Brookes, also from Stowlawn (now owns ‘One Way Music’ in Wolverhampton), Charlie Harris, Alan Leddington, Desmond Higgins (a neighbour from Stowlawn), Alan Dodd from Green Park Avenue, Stowlawn - he married, Leslie(?) also from Stowlawn. They emigrated to Perth, Australia and I saw them on Slade’s first tour there in 1973 (couldn’t get used to Leslie having an Australian accent).
My form teachers throughout my time there were Mr Barnaby (History and English) - also a registered Communist(!) and Mr Price (woodwork).
Mr Gower (a priest) guesses what he taught! Mr Price (music teacher). I remember shoving newspapers down the back of the piano for morning assembly on our last day of school there, so it wouldn’t play. Mr Hinchin (geography) - we used to call him ‘Scratch’. Mr Titley, English and Maths......Mr Fellows (Deputy Headmaster) Maths and…………………… Finally, Headmaster, George Daley, a wonderful man!
BM: Who was your first girlfriend/kiss?
DP: Irene (not sure of her surname) from Bourne Methodist Youth Club Moxley............
They used to play a slow song at the end of each night, she came and asked me to dance..... When the record finished (‘Voice in the Wilderness’ by Cliff Richard), we had a kiss (my first) someone shouted to me “Close Your Eyes”!! [Ed – are you out there Irene?]
BM: You were in the Cubs/Scouts. Were you prepared? Did you make a good Cub/Scout?
DP: I was in the 6th Bilston Cub Troop from when I was 9? Then, 6th Bilston Wesley Scout Troop from 11 years old till I was 16 years old. I got quite a few merit patches and became ‘Patrol Leader’ then ‘Troop Leader’. That’s where I learned to play drums BUT I had to play the bugle first! I could not get a sound out of the damn thing. I just used to stand at the back ‘puffing‘ my cheeks out. I was found out and given the job of cleaning the drums. I eventually got to play on the Sunday morning parades round Bilston Town Centre, where my Parents used to come and watch me - VERY EMBARRASSING! I made my first pair of ‘drum-sticks’ from the stem of an artificial Christmas Tree, I spent weeks, carving and smoothing them and varnishing them BUT not knowing about woods they broke the first time I used them...... My world shattered...... Haha!
BM: Are you still involved with that organisation?
DP: I’ve now introduced myself to the Troop again in Bilston. I’m getting an award ('The Don Powell Achievement Award') made to present yearly to the most promising Scout.
BM: I know you’re tea-total now, but can you recall what pubs you frequented?
DP: The Trumpet/Royal Exchange in Bilston. When we played, Wolverhampton Civic Hall on our ‘1970’s tours we always held our after show parties there. I remember we invited loads of ‘Fleet St’ reporters one year...... They still talk about it now.....
BM: Were you still in Bilston when you started the ‘N’ Betweens?
DP: Very much so. When we started we used to rehearse in our then singers (Johnny Howell’s) Fathers front room, and take our equipment on the bus.
BM: Why did you change to Ambrose Slade, then Slade? Tell us the story?
DP: We got this recording audition at Fontana Records the head of the company, Jack Baverstock, really liked us and said we could make an album. He actually gave us a week in his studio - just us and engineer Roger Wake. That album ‘Beginnings’ was basically our stage show from that time.
Nod & Jim wrote ‘Pity the Mother’ the other originals were just made up in the studio.
Many thanks to Simon Archer who has allowed us permission to print the interview...
www.bilstonmagazine.co.uk
YOUR VERY OWN BILSTON BOY MADE GOOD
Don Powell is the drummer with Slade. Yes, they’re still very much alive and kicking, albeit minus two of the original line-up and they still play to massive audiences (18,000 turned up to watch them in Moscow recently) mainly in the UK and Europe.
For younger readers, Slade were a glam rock band (you’d call them boy band now) who were known for their outlandish and extravagant costumes. Their best known hit, by far, [you know the one] still provides members with a sizeable royalty cheque every April, but they had 5 other number 1s as well, including ‘Come On Feel The Noise’ and ‘Mama We’re All Crazee Now’ [They don’t make ‘em like they used to!]
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of the ‘N’ Betweens, the forerunner to Ambrose Slade and then the much more familiar Slade, who went on to have a series of worldwide hits in the 60’s and 70’s.
Don, as many of you may know, was born and brought up in Stowlawn. He’s a very proud Bilstonian and was in town to attend many of the events that commemorated the start of the Great War back in August.
The Bilston Magazine catches up with Don during a recent visit to the town, where he popped into Moseley Park School for a look around his old stomping ground.
BM: What are your childhood memories of Bilston?
DP: Very warm ones! Being a member of the Saturday Morning Cinema Club at the Odeon (almost next to the, Spread Eagle pub) opposite the Town Hall. Going to, school at, Etheridge Secondary Modern Boys School.
As a teenager working for Picknells Green Grocers in the outdoor market, loading and unloading boxes of fruit and vegetables, all for 10 Bob a, week, (50pence.)
Also of Bilston Police Boxing Club and Bilston Athletic Club where I was a, member.
And a wonderful atmosphere in the, town.
BM: What was your address in Stowlawn?
DP: 54 Green Park Avenue (now Drive) Stowlawn Estate, Bilston, Staffs (now West Midlands) WV14 6EB.
BM: Is there a ‘Blue Plaque’ on the wall now? If not, why?
DP: Ha, you’ll have to ask the authorities..............
BM: Which school(s) did you attend?
DP: Villiers Primary and Junior School. Then Etheridge Secondary Modern Boys School and finally Wednesbury Technical College (they didn’t have a Metallurgy course at Bilston Technical College)
BM: Can you recall any teachers/mates?
DP: At Etheridge, Graham Swinnerton from when we were 11 years old. He later became a roadie for us and Tour Manager. We are still very best friends today. Keith Parton and Mike Brookes, also from Stowlawn (now owns ‘One Way Music’ in Wolverhampton), Charlie Harris, Alan Leddington, Desmond Higgins (a neighbour from Stowlawn), Alan Dodd from Green Park Avenue, Stowlawn - he married, Leslie(?) also from Stowlawn. They emigrated to Perth, Australia and I saw them on Slade’s first tour there in 1973 (couldn’t get used to Leslie having an Australian accent).
My form teachers throughout my time there were Mr Barnaby (History and English) - also a registered Communist(!) and Mr Price (woodwork).
Mr Gower (a priest) guesses what he taught! Mr Price (music teacher). I remember shoving newspapers down the back of the piano for morning assembly on our last day of school there, so it wouldn’t play. Mr Hinchin (geography) - we used to call him ‘Scratch’. Mr Titley, English and Maths......Mr Fellows (Deputy Headmaster) Maths and…………………… Finally, Headmaster, George Daley, a wonderful man!
BM: Who was your first girlfriend/kiss?
DP: Irene (not sure of her surname) from Bourne Methodist Youth Club Moxley............
They used to play a slow song at the end of each night, she came and asked me to dance..... When the record finished (‘Voice in the Wilderness’ by Cliff Richard), we had a kiss (my first) someone shouted to me “Close Your Eyes”!! [Ed – are you out there Irene?]
BM: You were in the Cubs/Scouts. Were you prepared? Did you make a good Cub/Scout?
DP: I was in the 6th Bilston Cub Troop from when I was 9? Then, 6th Bilston Wesley Scout Troop from 11 years old till I was 16 years old. I got quite a few merit patches and became ‘Patrol Leader’ then ‘Troop Leader’. That’s where I learned to play drums BUT I had to play the bugle first! I could not get a sound out of the damn thing. I just used to stand at the back ‘puffing‘ my cheeks out. I was found out and given the job of cleaning the drums. I eventually got to play on the Sunday morning parades round Bilston Town Centre, where my Parents used to come and watch me - VERY EMBARRASSING! I made my first pair of ‘drum-sticks’ from the stem of an artificial Christmas Tree, I spent weeks, carving and smoothing them and varnishing them BUT not knowing about woods they broke the first time I used them...... My world shattered...... Haha!
BM: Are you still involved with that organisation?
DP: I’ve now introduced myself to the Troop again in Bilston. I’m getting an award ('The Don Powell Achievement Award') made to present yearly to the most promising Scout.
BM: I know you’re tea-total now, but can you recall what pubs you frequented?
DP: The Trumpet/Royal Exchange in Bilston. When we played, Wolverhampton Civic Hall on our ‘1970’s tours we always held our after show parties there. I remember we invited loads of ‘Fleet St’ reporters one year...... They still talk about it now.....
BM: Were you still in Bilston when you started the ‘N’ Betweens?
DP: Very much so. When we started we used to rehearse in our then singers (Johnny Howell’s) Fathers front room, and take our equipment on the bus.
BM: Why did you change to Ambrose Slade, then Slade? Tell us the story?
DP: We got this recording audition at Fontana Records the head of the company, Jack Baverstock, really liked us and said we could make an album. He actually gave us a week in his studio - just us and engineer Roger Wake. That album ‘Beginnings’ was basically our stage show from that time.
Nod & Jim wrote ‘Pity the Mother’ the other originals were just made up in the studio.
The instrumental ‘Genesis’ actually became the single ‘Know Who You Are’ and lyrics were added later. Jack Baverstock hated our name the ‘N’ Betweens. Therefore, so as not to spoil our chances of getting a recording contract, we agreed to go along with his wishes. As the story goes, his secretary had a name for everything in her handbag....... Well, something was called ‘Ambrose’ and something was called, ‘Slade’............. Promoters were always getting the name mixed up on billings, it would be ‘Amgo Shed’, ‘Arnold Slade’ and such like, so we decided to drop the ‘Arnold’ and call ourselves just ‘Slade’.
BM: You have obviously travelled well. What is your favourite venue to perform at?
DP: Many, all for different reasons. These aren’t in any particular order.
· Madison Square Garden’s, New York.
· Spectrum, Philadelphia, (where they filmed the fight scenes for, ‘Rocky’)
· Winterland, San Francisco.......
· Auditorium, St Louis.....
· Ranwick Racecourse, Sydney
· Budokan, Tokyo
· Val Bunna, Berlin.
· Olympic Stadium, Moscow.
· KB Halle, Copenhagen. [Ed – I’m guessing that was to keep ‘er indoors happy!]
· Hammersmith Odeon, London.
I always get a ‘kick’ walking past Bilston Town Hall, remembering, watching Bilston band ‘Danny Cannon and the Ramrods’ eventually playing there ourselves thinking: “How Far Will This Go”?
BM: How often do you get back to Bilston nowadays?
DP: As often as I can as my two sisters still live there and my parents are buried there. I love going round reminiscing to myself where we started, hoping to ‘bump’ into old school mates, don’t know if I’d recognise them though! So, it still means a lot to me.........
BM: What do you think of the Walk of Stars/Freedom of the Town ideas?
DP: An absolute honour, for anyone.
Don is performing with Slade at the Robin 2 on 18th December. Advance Ticket Price: £20.00 Door Price: £22.50 For tickets, ring the box office on 01902 401211.
DP: Two doors from the Robin, is where I met Dave Hill. That’s where, singer Johnny Howells lived with his Father at their guest house. The Robin was a Territorial Army Drill Hall then...............
Don Powell has lived in Denmark for the last 10 years after marrying his Danish wife, Hanna.
You can read more about this local legend, in his autobiography, - Look Wot I Dun – My Life in Slade - which is on sale at Waterstones and other book retailers as well as amazon.co.uk – might make a nice Birthday or Christmas present!
BM: You have obviously travelled well. What is your favourite venue to perform at?
DP: Many, all for different reasons. These aren’t in any particular order.
· Madison Square Garden’s, New York.
· Spectrum, Philadelphia, (where they filmed the fight scenes for, ‘Rocky’)
· Winterland, San Francisco.......
· Auditorium, St Louis.....
· Ranwick Racecourse, Sydney
· Budokan, Tokyo
· Val Bunna, Berlin.
· Olympic Stadium, Moscow.
· KB Halle, Copenhagen. [Ed – I’m guessing that was to keep ‘er indoors happy!]
· Hammersmith Odeon, London.
I always get a ‘kick’ walking past Bilston Town Hall, remembering, watching Bilston band ‘Danny Cannon and the Ramrods’ eventually playing there ourselves thinking: “How Far Will This Go”?
BM: How often do you get back to Bilston nowadays?
DP: As often as I can as my two sisters still live there and my parents are buried there. I love going round reminiscing to myself where we started, hoping to ‘bump’ into old school mates, don’t know if I’d recognise them though! So, it still means a lot to me.........
BM: What do you think of the Walk of Stars/Freedom of the Town ideas?
DP: An absolute honour, for anyone.
Don is performing with Slade at the Robin 2 on 18th December. Advance Ticket Price: £20.00 Door Price: £22.50 For tickets, ring the box office on 01902 401211.
DP: Two doors from the Robin, is where I met Dave Hill. That’s where, singer Johnny Howells lived with his Father at their guest house. The Robin was a Territorial Army Drill Hall then...............
Don Powell has lived in Denmark for the last 10 years after marrying his Danish wife, Hanna.
You can read more about this local legend, in his autobiography, - Look Wot I Dun – My Life in Slade - which is on sale at Waterstones and other book retailers as well as amazon.co.uk – might make a nice Birthday or Christmas present!
Don interview on BBC1's Midland's Today - 26 November 2014
Thanks to Gary Jordan for giving us a YouTube link for Don's interview on Midland's Today on BBC1 on 26 November.
A reunion at the Blue Brick before a busy Monday...
Don had a reunion at the Blue Brick restaurant in Wolverhampton with some old band mates and friends on Sunday 23 November...
All photos courtesy of Susan Wilson
All photos courtesy of Susan Wilson
And then on Monday 24 November he moved on to The Robin in Bilston to film a segment for Midlands Today (BBC1 - Sky Channel 959) to be shown at 6.30pm on Wednesday 26 November.
Later on Monday 24th November Don paid a visit to Moseley Park Comprehensive School, which was formed when Don's old school Etheridge Secondary School merged with Bilston Boys Grammar School some years ago... He gave a talk to the pupils.
Don's final stop of the day was to visit his old Scout group - the 6th Bilston Scouts... He presented an award that he is sponsoring, The Don Powell Achievement Award, to Scout Toby Jones - who was the winner this year. Don gave a talk to the Scvouts and Cubs and was presented with a special cake that they had made....
Don records interview for Keith Middleton's BBC WM 95.6 show
On Saturday 22 November Don pre-recorded an interview for Keith Middleton's Late Show on BBC WM.
The show will be broadcast on Saturday 13 December between 22.00 and 01.00... Keith's show plays the best in 70's and 80's music.
The show will be broadcast on Saturday 13 December between 22.00 and 01.00... Keith's show plays the best in 70's and 80's music.
Don reunited with old band mate Craig Fenney
Don and Craig Fenney
Vicki, Don and Carole
Don flew into Stansted on Friday 21 November - for a short trip to Wolverhampton...
He was due to meet old Slade band-mate Craig Fenney (now MD of the Music Shipping Company - which owns Shaw Drumsticks)..... However, he found out that another old mate, Robert Plant, was playing a gig at The Wolves Civic that night... So he made a phone call to long time 'N Betweens fans, and friends, Carole Williams and Vicki Pearson, to see if they could blag him and Craig entry to the sold out gig...
Could they manage it? Of course they could!... In the meantime Don battled with Friday night M6 traffic and managed to get to the gig just five minutes before Robert's band came on stage.
He was due to meet old Slade band-mate Craig Fenney (now MD of the Music Shipping Company - which owns Shaw Drumsticks)..... However, he found out that another old mate, Robert Plant, was playing a gig at The Wolves Civic that night... So he made a phone call to long time 'N Betweens fans, and friends, Carole Williams and Vicki Pearson, to see if they could blag him and Craig entry to the sold out gig...
Could they manage it? Of course they could!... In the meantime Don battled with Friday night M6 traffic and managed to get to the gig just five minutes before Robert's band came on stage.
Don's sister remembers when her house was under attack...
Don with sister Carol - and Carol's husband Gerald and daughter Jill
Don spent the weekend of 21-23 November in Wolverhampton, going to see Robert Plant's band play at the Wolves Civic and doing some promotional bits and pieces.
Don managed to find time on Saturday 22 November to catch up with school mate Mick Brookes at his One Way Music shop in Salop Street in Wolverhampton.
Whilst in the shop he was approached by an old time Slade fan who apologised to Don... She said that she was from Compton in Wolverhampton, and in the 70's used to travel over to Bilston to track down his white Bentley and rip things like the occasional windscreen wiper from the car, to keep as a souvenir....
Don managed to find time on Saturday 22 November to catch up with school mate Mick Brookes at his One Way Music shop in Salop Street in Wolverhampton.
Whilst in the shop he was approached by an old time Slade fan who apologised to Don... She said that she was from Compton in Wolverhampton, and in the 70's used to travel over to Bilston to track down his white Bentley and rip things like the occasional windscreen wiper from the car, to keep as a souvenir....
Don taking charge of the white Bentley - 1973
Later that day, Don had tea with his sister Carol in Wednesfield. She remembered the commotion that Don's white Bentley caused on the Stowlawn Estate where her parent's (and she) lived in 1973...
"Don had just bought his white Bentley - and a picture of Don picking it up had been published in numerous newspapers...
Don happened to be home in Wolverhampton one day - and called round to me late afternoon for a tea and a catch up. I lived with my family in a house on the other side of Stowlawn to my parents...
As Don and I were chatting I noticed a schoolboy on a bike. He stopped outside my house - looked at Don's Bentley, then looked at my house.... and I could see him thinking.... I realised that his brain must have clicked as he thought 'Don Powell'.... he then cycled off at speed. He must have cycled back to the local school (where it was 'home' time) and told everyone that Don was at my house, because his car was outside. Slade were enormous at the time - as 'Skweeze Me Pleeze Me' was no1 in the charts - and everyone knew Don's Bentley....
Within minutes my house was under siege. A hundred or so kids were outside banging on the door, hitting the windows, shouting through the letter box and climbing over the fence... I drew the curtains so they couldn't see in. What made matters worse was that I had promised one local lad that I would arrange for him to meet Don, next time he came round my house. I let this lad in and this seemed to upset the others who weren't allowed in...
I said to Don that he would have to leave the house. The house was under attack. My garden was trampled on, flowers were trodden on and my lilac bush was ruined..."
Don then continued... "I was petrified leaving the house. I literally had to fight my way into my car. It was scary as I obviously had no security and kids were grabbing at my hair and clothes... The commotion had caused such a scene that all the neighbours were in the street wondering what on earth was going on...
Once I managed to get into the car and lock the doors, it was still a nightmare. It was so difficult to drive as there were some many kids in the street that I was frightened of knocking one over..."
Don's sister then remembered that a few weeks after the event, and after Don was badly injured after crashing the Bentley, that the 'boy on the bike' knocked at her front door.... Carol said "He knocked at the door and all he could say was: 'I'm sorry about your Don' before cycling off with tears rolling down his cheeks....."
"Don had just bought his white Bentley - and a picture of Don picking it up had been published in numerous newspapers...
Don happened to be home in Wolverhampton one day - and called round to me late afternoon for a tea and a catch up. I lived with my family in a house on the other side of Stowlawn to my parents...
As Don and I were chatting I noticed a schoolboy on a bike. He stopped outside my house - looked at Don's Bentley, then looked at my house.... and I could see him thinking.... I realised that his brain must have clicked as he thought 'Don Powell'.... he then cycled off at speed. He must have cycled back to the local school (where it was 'home' time) and told everyone that Don was at my house, because his car was outside. Slade were enormous at the time - as 'Skweeze Me Pleeze Me' was no1 in the charts - and everyone knew Don's Bentley....
Within minutes my house was under siege. A hundred or so kids were outside banging on the door, hitting the windows, shouting through the letter box and climbing over the fence... I drew the curtains so they couldn't see in. What made matters worse was that I had promised one local lad that I would arrange for him to meet Don, next time he came round my house. I let this lad in and this seemed to upset the others who weren't allowed in...
I said to Don that he would have to leave the house. The house was under attack. My garden was trampled on, flowers were trodden on and my lilac bush was ruined..."
Don then continued... "I was petrified leaving the house. I literally had to fight my way into my car. It was scary as I obviously had no security and kids were grabbing at my hair and clothes... The commotion had caused such a scene that all the neighbours were in the street wondering what on earth was going on...
Once I managed to get into the car and lock the doors, it was still a nightmare. It was so difficult to drive as there were some many kids in the street that I was frightened of knocking one over..."
Don's sister then remembered that a few weeks after the event, and after Don was badly injured after crashing the Bentley, that the 'boy on the bike' knocked at her front door.... Carol said "He knocked at the door and all he could say was: 'I'm sorry about your Don' before cycling off with tears rolling down his cheeks....."
The reason for the success of 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade'
At the 'Louder Than Words' festival in Manchester last weekend, Chris Charlesworth, MD of Omnibus Press, talked about Don's biography.
He said the book has been a success, with it being reprinted three times.
Chris mentioned that historically biographies written by rock drummers do not sell well. The public often don't think that drummers will provide readers with a good insight as to what went on within a band...
However, Chris said that Don's book has been a success purely down to Don's very hard work promoting it... He has completed numerous signing sessions around the country and done scores of press and radio interviews, encouraging the public to buy the book after giving information about what his book includes...
He said the book has been a success, with it being reprinted three times.
Chris mentioned that historically biographies written by rock drummers do not sell well. The public often don't think that drummers will provide readers with a good insight as to what went on within a band...
However, Chris said that Don's book has been a success purely down to Don's very hard work promoting it... He has completed numerous signing sessions around the country and done scores of press and radio interviews, encouraging the public to buy the book after giving information about what his book includes...
Don gets an email from a legend...
Don has been in touch by email with legendary American guitarist, songwriter and producer - Steve Cropper.
He was the 'house' guitarist playing on many of their hits... Artists that he worked with include: Booker T and the MGs, Otis Redding, Sam & Dave.
Don emailed Steve to ask about Al Jackson's drums.... His response (which will interest fellow drummers reading this site) was:
"Hi Don
Sorry I'm just now getting back to you on the Al Jackson drum question.
I'm pretty sure he had a Ludwig snare. The overhead tom and the floor toms were Gretch.I don't remember what the bass or kick drum was but I do know he had a mixed set. Some are on display in Memphis at the Rockin' Soul Museum. The small tom he used on the Al Green hits at Hi Recording was given to Steve Jordan by Willie Mitchell and Steve still uses it sometimes. I haven't seen it in a while, but the last time I saw it the big floor tom still had the cigarette burn hole in it! "
Cropper
He was the 'house' guitarist playing on many of their hits... Artists that he worked with include: Booker T and the MGs, Otis Redding, Sam & Dave.
Don emailed Steve to ask about Al Jackson's drums.... His response (which will interest fellow drummers reading this site) was:
"Hi Don
Sorry I'm just now getting back to you on the Al Jackson drum question.
I'm pretty sure he had a Ludwig snare. The overhead tom and the floor toms were Gretch.I don't remember what the bass or kick drum was but I do know he had a mixed set. Some are on display in Memphis at the Rockin' Soul Museum. The small tom he used on the Al Green hits at Hi Recording was given to Steve Jordan by Willie Mitchell and Steve still uses it sometimes. I haven't seen it in a while, but the last time I saw it the big floor tom still had the cigarette burn hole in it! "
Cropper
Don's success at the 'Louder Than Words' festival in Manchester
We are pleased to report that Don's "In conversation with Don Powell" talk at the 'Louder Than Words' festival in Manchester was a huge success...
Don flew from Denmark to Manchester on Friday 14th November so that he could attend the launch of the three day music writers' festival, that was held at the impressive Palace Hotel.
Don flew from Denmark to Manchester on Friday 14th November so that he could attend the launch of the three day music writers' festival, that was held at the impressive Palace Hotel.
On the day of the event (Saturday 16 November), Don was pleased to sit in on a few of the sessions - including Zoe Howe's session. Zoe is a rock author who has written biographies about Stevie Nicks, The Slits, Florence and The Machine, The Jesus and Mary Chain and Wilko Johnson. Zoe also happens to be daughter of Steve Howe from the rock band Yes...
Don then sat down for a quick cup of tea with author and self confessed Slade (and Glam Rock) fan Alwyn Turner.
Don and Alwyn had a quick talk to outline the basis of the interview...
Don then spent time with old pals Chris Charlesworth (Managing Editor of Omnibus Press) and Ric Lee (from Ten Years After). Chris Charlesworth was at the event for the full three days - as many Omnibus authors were doing talk sessions. Ric Lee was there for the day to support Don, who is an old mate from the mid 1970's, when Slade and Ten Years After played gigs together in the United States.
(Chris mentioned that he has commissioned a new Slade biography to be published by Omnibus next year. Watch this space).
Don then sat down for a quick cup of tea with author and self confessed Slade (and Glam Rock) fan Alwyn Turner.
Don and Alwyn had a quick talk to outline the basis of the interview...
Don then spent time with old pals Chris Charlesworth (Managing Editor of Omnibus Press) and Ric Lee (from Ten Years After). Chris Charlesworth was at the event for the full three days - as many Omnibus authors were doing talk sessions. Ric Lee was there for the day to support Don, who is an old mate from the mid 1970's, when Slade and Ten Years After played gigs together in the United States.
(Chris mentioned that he has commissioned a new Slade biography to be published by Omnibus next year. Watch this space).
Don and Alwyn then made their way to the 2nd floor of the hotel. Don's interview took place at 3.15pm in the impressive Directors Suite. The room soon filled, and the organising team had to arrange extra seats to be laid out for the larger than expected audience...
As a prelude to the interview Alwyn decided to play the audio to 'Dapple Rose', which was supported by accompanying images on the room's large screen. Alwyn had chosen this song as the lyrics were written by Don and an early example of the 'hit' formula that made Slade so successful. Don mentioned that Slade had tried to capture the Bee Gees' sound that was so popular at the time...
As a prelude to the interview Alwyn decided to play the audio to 'Dapple Rose', which was supported by accompanying images on the room's large screen. Alwyn had chosen this song as the lyrics were written by Don and an early example of the 'hit' formula that made Slade so successful. Don mentioned that Slade had tried to capture the Bee Gees' sound that was so popular at the time...
Don's interview lasted in excess of the allotted 90 minutes. The only time Don could gasp for air was when Alwyn gave Don a break by playing audio / video compilation of a couple of Slade tracks.
The interview was really in-depth and Don gave full accounts of stories from his childhood, music career and private life. Part of the reason for the success was that interviewer Alwyn was SO knowledgeable about Don and Slade's history... Alwyn told webmaster after the event that he didn't do any research for the interview.... He didn't need to - he had been a big Slade fan since he was young and knew all the facts and details of Slade's history. This bought out the very best in the interview and allowed Don to go into great detail with his stories...
Slade's Bahamas stay was covered really well - with Don giving a great insight into what actually happened when the band were 'forced' to stay on the Island, before executing an escape...
The interview was really in-depth and Don gave full accounts of stories from his childhood, music career and private life. Part of the reason for the success was that interviewer Alwyn was SO knowledgeable about Don and Slade's history... Alwyn told webmaster after the event that he didn't do any research for the interview.... He didn't need to - he had been a big Slade fan since he was young and knew all the facts and details of Slade's history. This bought out the very best in the interview and allowed Don to go into great detail with his stories...
Slade's Bahamas stay was covered really well - with Don giving a great insight into what actually happened when the band were 'forced' to stay on the Island, before executing an escape...
Another highlight was that Alwyn chose to discuss 'She Did It To Me' being one of the best Slade tracks ever.... and he couldn't understand why it was only released as a B side (to The Bangin' Man). Don agreed saying the track was 'wasted'.
Don's stories flowed (including numerous about Ozzy Osbourne) and Don made time for a question and answers session at the end - when fans were given the opportunity to get answers to questions that they were longing to ask. Don's time over-ran, and the room eventually had to be cleared as the next 'In conversation' session was late in starting.
Don retreated to The Post Room (basically a large bar area on the First Floor) to continue with a signing / meet and greet session...
This was a great afternoon - and Don received positive feedback from all in attendance...
Don's stories flowed (including numerous about Ozzy Osbourne) and Don made time for a question and answers session at the end - when fans were given the opportunity to get answers to questions that they were longing to ask. Don's time over-ran, and the room eventually had to be cleared as the next 'In conversation' session was late in starting.
Don retreated to The Post Room (basically a large bar area on the First Floor) to continue with a signing / meet and greet session...
This was a great afternoon - and Don received positive feedback from all in attendance...
LINKS
Louder Than Words festival website - Ric Lee's website - Alwyn Turner's website - Omnibus Books website
Louder Than Words festival website - Ric Lee's website - Alwyn Turner's website - Omnibus Books website
BBC Radio Wales - Alan Thompson interview...
Don's interview with Alan Thompson of BBC Radio Wales is on 'extended' iPlayer - with listeners able to hear the interview for another 4 weeks (from 16 November).
To hear the interview click here - Don features at 21.36 minutes...
To hear the interview click here - Don features at 21.36 minutes...
Don meets his love child..
Don meets his love child...Don meets his love child....?
Well, no not really.
Don met up with Too Rex at Butlins, Skegness on Sunday 9th November - when both Slade and Too Rex appeared on the same bill.
The drummer with Too Rex is Steevi Bacon (far right in the photo) and Don says how similar looking they are.... especially compared with how Don looked in the 1970's. Whenever they meet up EVERYONE says that Steevi must be Don's love child. Ha ha!
Well, no not really.
Don met up with Too Rex at Butlins, Skegness on Sunday 9th November - when both Slade and Too Rex appeared on the same bill.
The drummer with Too Rex is Steevi Bacon (far right in the photo) and Don says how similar looking they are.... especially compared with how Don looked in the 1970's. Whenever they meet up EVERYONE says that Steevi must be Don's love child. Ha ha!
Don talks to Tony Gillham at BBC Radio Jersey
Part One of interview with Tony Gillham where Don talks candidly about his car crash, memory loss and drinking with Ozzy Osbourne..... Thanks to Neil Cossar from Omnibus for proving the Audio Boo.
Don's interview agenda for last week...
Don is currently doing more promotion for his biography 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade'and has sent Webmaster the list of his hectic interview schedule for last week (see below)... Don packed in a lot of interviews in two days...
Probably one of the best was with old buddy Mike Read on BBC Radio Berkshire. The interview is only available on iPlayer for another couple of days.... To hear it click here - and listen from 1.33 onwards....
To read Don's diary of his trip - see the latest entries dated 7 and 8 November in Don's Diary page on the website - click here to read it.
Probably one of the best was with old buddy Mike Read on BBC Radio Berkshire. The interview is only available on iPlayer for another couple of days.... To hear it click here - and listen from 1.33 onwards....
To read Don's diary of his trip - see the latest entries dated 7 and 8 November in Don's Diary page on the website - click here to read it.
More "Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade" promotion... Radio Plymouth Interview
In the build up to Don talking at the 'Louder Than Words' festival in Manchester on Saturday 15 November, Don has been doing some more promotion for Omnibus Press about
his and Lise's book 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade'....
On 6 November he did a radio interview with Tim Mann on Radio Plymouth.
his and Lise's book 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade'....
On 6 November he did a radio interview with Tim Mann on Radio Plymouth.
Don and Danish singer Mike Tramp
Don has become good friends with Mike Tramp, a Dane who performs as lead singer with 80's US band White Lion and also Freak Of Nature.
Mike had lunch at Don's house in Denmark on Friday 24th October - when he was performing a solo gig in nearby Randers (which Don attended that evening).
Don said "We immediately felt like 'brothers in music' and exchanged many stories of our touring days in the US. A great guy, and a great musician!.... Looking forward to going to more of his shows."
Mike had lunch at Don's house in Denmark on Friday 24th October - when he was performing a solo gig in nearby Randers (which Don attended that evening).
Don said "We immediately felt like 'brothers in music' and exchanged many stories of our touring days in the US. A great guy, and a great musician!.... Looking forward to going to more of his shows."
Don gives Ten Years After's Ric Lee a Halloween surprise!
Don tells us he got a call from his old mate, Ric Lee, drummer with Ten Years After...On Halloween, Ric's band were playing not far from where Don lives in Denmark, and he invited Don and Hanne to go and eat with all the band after their sound check.
Don says it was great to see him again. They reminisced about the time they toured together in America during the ‘70’s... Slade's classic opening number from those times ‘Hear Me Callin’ was one of Ten Years After's songs - so obviously Slade didn’t play that when they toured together. Don says that he and Hanne had a lovely evening. All Ric's band were great guys....
HOWEVER - Don sent us a photo of him being reunited backstage with Ric. As you can see Don gave Ric a Halloween fright - by sporting a black eye. BUT NO - it wasn't theatrical make-up, it was a real black-eye. Don said the honest truth was that he fell into the clematis near his front door, after he tripped over the tow-bar on the car carrying shopping! He had to go to the hospital and have stitches and all kinds of injections....
Don says it was great to see him again. They reminisced about the time they toured together in America during the ‘70’s... Slade's classic opening number from those times ‘Hear Me Callin’ was one of Ten Years After's songs - so obviously Slade didn’t play that when they toured together. Don says that he and Hanne had a lovely evening. All Ric's band were great guys....
HOWEVER - Don sent us a photo of him being reunited backstage with Ric. As you can see Don gave Ric a Halloween fright - by sporting a black eye. BUT NO - it wasn't theatrical make-up, it was a real black-eye. Don said the honest truth was that he fell into the clematis near his front door, after he tripped over the tow-bar on the car carrying shopping! He had to go to the hospital and have stitches and all kinds of injections....
THANKS
The editor of this site gratefully acknowledges permission to use copyright material on this web site. We thank, amongst others: Malcolm Skellington, Fran Skellington, Chris Selby, Penny Irving, The Freeport News, Lise Lyng Falkenberg, Piotr Walecki, David Graham and Susan Wilson.
With the archive material every effort has been made to trace and contact copyright holders. If there are any inadvertent omissions we apologise to those concerned, and ask that you contact us so that we can correct any oversight as soon as possible. The contact details are given above.
The editor of this site gratefully acknowledges permission to use copyright material on this web site. We thank, amongst others: Malcolm Skellington, Fran Skellington, Chris Selby, Penny Irving, The Freeport News, Lise Lyng Falkenberg, Piotr Walecki, David Graham and Susan Wilson.
With the archive material every effort has been made to trace and contact copyright holders. If there are any inadvertent omissions we apologise to those concerned, and ask that you contact us so that we can correct any oversight as soon as possible. The contact details are given above.
