OLD NEWS ARCHIVE 5
How Britain Rocked Christmas
Look out for Don and Dave Hill on TV this Boxing Day.
They both recorded an interview in London on Tuesday 21 October for Channel 4. The footage is to be used in a documentary, tentatively titled, 'How Britain Rocked Christmas'.
Nico Wasserman directed the shoot and said to Don "We are very excited to feature Slade in the programme as we think you are the band that helped change Britain's attitude to Xmas music, giving it a much needed dose of rock 'n' roll... And in doing so have given us 40 years of great records".
The website will update you more about transmission details nearer the time. In the meantime read Don's Diary entries dated 20 and 21 October.
They both recorded an interview in London on Tuesday 21 October for Channel 4. The footage is to be used in a documentary, tentatively titled, 'How Britain Rocked Christmas'.
Nico Wasserman directed the shoot and said to Don "We are very excited to feature Slade in the programme as we think you are the band that helped change Britain's attitude to Xmas music, giving it a much needed dose of rock 'n' roll... And in doing so have given us 40 years of great records".
The website will update you more about transmission details nearer the time. In the meantime read Don's Diary entries dated 20 and 21 October.
More sad news...
Don received two more pieces of sad news this week...
First he received an email from Serena Martin:
"Hi Don, hopefully you remember my special friend Sally from Tenterden? We saw Slade (yet again!) at Tunbridge Wells about a year ago and you kindly spent time afterwards chatting to her outside. Unfortunately she passed away last Sunday after a 2 year battle with cancer, and I just wanted to tell you that the time you spent chatting to her was well appreciated and gave her such a lift. I believe "Coz I Love You " will be played at her funeral... and I hope that I can smile and remember our days together since we were 5 years old and the times we saw Slade in London in the 70's, Butlins in 2006 and last year. Thank you and Slade for so many happy memories xx"
Also Don heard from Mary Sinclair (following on from the article a few news items previous on this site titled 'Surprise Surprise':
"Hi Don,
I am emailing to you both just to say that Di died on Monday evening of this week.
Sadly she did not make her 58th birthday which is tomorrow, nor obviously Christmas which she had so hoped to hang on for. It was not to be. She died from a pulminary thrombosis embolism which would have been instant, and did not suffer according to the medics. Her husband John had taken the dog out for ten minutes and returned to find she had died whilst taking a rest on her bed.
We are all so sad she has gone but relieved to know she is not suffering anymore.
I just wanted to say a big thank you again for getting a card from Noddy to her in time. It did cheer her up so much, and no doubt it will be tucked inside her coffin!
Kind regards Mary Sinclair" (email copied to Noddy Holder).
Don was sad to hear of the passing of Sally and Di - and passes his condolences to their family and friends.
First he received an email from Serena Martin:
"Hi Don, hopefully you remember my special friend Sally from Tenterden? We saw Slade (yet again!) at Tunbridge Wells about a year ago and you kindly spent time afterwards chatting to her outside. Unfortunately she passed away last Sunday after a 2 year battle with cancer, and I just wanted to tell you that the time you spent chatting to her was well appreciated and gave her such a lift. I believe "Coz I Love You " will be played at her funeral... and I hope that I can smile and remember our days together since we were 5 years old and the times we saw Slade in London in the 70's, Butlins in 2006 and last year. Thank you and Slade for so many happy memories xx"
Also Don heard from Mary Sinclair (following on from the article a few news items previous on this site titled 'Surprise Surprise':
"Hi Don,
I am emailing to you both just to say that Di died on Monday evening of this week.
Sadly she did not make her 58th birthday which is tomorrow, nor obviously Christmas which she had so hoped to hang on for. It was not to be. She died from a pulminary thrombosis embolism which would have been instant, and did not suffer according to the medics. Her husband John had taken the dog out for ten minutes and returned to find she had died whilst taking a rest on her bed.
We are all so sad she has gone but relieved to know she is not suffering anymore.
I just wanted to say a big thank you again for getting a card from Noddy to her in time. It did cheer her up so much, and no doubt it will be tucked inside her coffin!
Kind regards Mary Sinclair" (email copied to Noddy Holder).
Don was sad to hear of the passing of Sally and Di - and passes his condolences to their family and friends.
drumBEAT! 2014 postponed...
We were sorry to hear from the organisers of drumBEAT! 2014 that the event, that was due to take place in Manchester next month, has been postponed until next year.
They have told us "We are extremely sad to inform you that due to an irresolvable logistical problem, that we have had no choice but to postpone the world record drum attempt until next year".
They have told us "We are extremely sad to inform you that due to an irresolvable logistical problem, that we have had no choice but to postpone the world record drum attempt until next year".
RIP Alvin Stardust
Don was saddened to hear today (Thursday 23 October) of the passing of Alvin Stardust.... Alvin was one of the 'glam rock crew' in the 1970's and had a No1 single with 'Jealous Mind' in 1974.
Don said:
"He was such a lovely guy. I only met him a few times BUT he had all the time in the world for you. RIP mate. Don X "
Don said:
"He was such a lovely guy. I only met him a few times BUT he had all the time in the world for you. RIP mate. Don X "
RIP Mick Burt
Mick Burt (2nd right) with Chas and Dave
Slade fan John Berry emailed the website to advise that he was saddened to hear of the passing of drummer Mick Burt. He asked if Don knew him or had met him / had any stories about him? Here is Don's response.
"I first met Mick Burt in 1966, when he was playing drums for Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers. The 'N Betweens supported them on numerous occasions. Mick's drumming first came to my attention on a record called ‘One Way Love’ (and I told him so) and I especially liked his playing of bass drum with Cliff Bennett since 1964.
When we saw his band cover the Beatles song ‘Got To Get You Into My Life’ in 1966, we (Slade) then learned how to play that on stage.... (MORE great drumming by Mick).
I met Mick again years later in a pub called ‘Sir Richard Steeles’ (which was to become my favourite watering hole) in Hampstead during the late 1970’s. He was playing at a big Press Reception for a duo he’d just joined..... Chas & Dave..... (the rest is history).
We became great friends, BUT, only seeing each other occasionally... I’m gonna miss you mate..... RIP."
"I first met Mick Burt in 1966, when he was playing drums for Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers. The 'N Betweens supported them on numerous occasions. Mick's drumming first came to my attention on a record called ‘One Way Love’ (and I told him so) and I especially liked his playing of bass drum with Cliff Bennett since 1964.
When we saw his band cover the Beatles song ‘Got To Get You Into My Life’ in 1966, we (Slade) then learned how to play that on stage.... (MORE great drumming by Mick).
I met Mick again years later in a pub called ‘Sir Richard Steeles’ (which was to become my favourite watering hole) in Hampstead during the late 1970’s. He was playing at a big Press Reception for a duo he’d just joined..... Chas & Dave..... (the rest is history).
We became great friends, BUT, only seeing each other occasionally... I’m gonna miss you mate..... RIP."
Swedish TV
Spike wants a plug
Don has been a friend of drummer Spike Webb for many years... He even contributed to his book 'Mad, Bad and Dangerous' - which lifted the lid on what it was like to be a drummer.
Spike has now emailed Don:
"For once this is not a Mad, Bad and Dangerous releated email. It's a forwarded message from our bass player/producer regarding my reformed band Sid Sideboard and the Chairs (from many moons ago). We have recently recorded a Christmas single 'Santa Left Me'. It's a fun rocker - and I thought I would send a short preview, if you might like to listen. If you like it please share it - the track is being released the beginning of December, hopefully with a vid as well. Just click on the soundcloud link below. Cheers Spike."
Soundcloud link click here. Facebook page click here.
Spike has now emailed Don:
"For once this is not a Mad, Bad and Dangerous releated email. It's a forwarded message from our bass player/producer regarding my reformed band Sid Sideboard and the Chairs (from many moons ago). We have recently recorded a Christmas single 'Santa Left Me'. It's a fun rocker - and I thought I would send a short preview, if you might like to listen. If you like it please share it - the track is being released the beginning of December, hopefully with a vid as well. Just click on the soundcloud link below. Cheers Spike."
Soundcloud link click here. Facebook page click here.
Don signs Aquarian Drumheads endorsement
We are pleased to announce that Don is now a full endorsee of Aquarian Drumheads.
Don's pen pal
As readers of this site will know, Don keeps in touch with many of the musicians, performers, studio technicians and writers that he has met over the years.
Earlier this year, Don went to the two Robbie Williams gigs in Denmark and really got along with Robbie's Dad, Pete Conway, who performed with Robbie in the show.
Since then, Pete and Don often email each other - Pete giving Don updates as to how Robbie's tour has progressed around the world...
Don is pleased to share with us Pete's latest email:
"Hi Don. Back home now and getting over the jet lag! We have done Perth... Melbourne... then Brisbane and Sydney. Eight shows during four weeks. Back to rainy Stoke. We are now waiting the arrival of the new baby. Will be going over to LA for Xmas. Cheers! X
Pete sent Don the picture used in this article...
Earlier this year, Don went to the two Robbie Williams gigs in Denmark and really got along with Robbie's Dad, Pete Conway, who performed with Robbie in the show.
Since then, Pete and Don often email each other - Pete giving Don updates as to how Robbie's tour has progressed around the world...
Don is pleased to share with us Pete's latest email:
"Hi Don. Back home now and getting over the jet lag! We have done Perth... Melbourne... then Brisbane and Sydney. Eight shows during four weeks. Back to rainy Stoke. We are now waiting the arrival of the new baby. Will be going over to LA for Xmas. Cheers! X
Pete sent Don the picture used in this article...
More Details on Don's 'Louder Than Words' Event
As we have mentioned in a previous post...
Don will be appearing the the 'Louder Than Words' literary festival in Manchester on Saturday 15 November at the Palace Hotel, Oxford Street, M60 7HA.
Don will be doing "An audience with..." at 3.15pm in the Directors Suite. He will be interviewed by Alwyn Turner and the event lasts until 4.45pm.
After the event Don will be doing book signings in the Post Room from 5pm-5.30pm. (Don's book will be available to be purchased at the event).
Tickets for Don's "Audience with..." session are only £7 and are available by clicking here.
Also appearing on the same day as Don are Edwyn Collins and Viv Albertine (The Slits).... So if you fancy catching them too, why not get an all day pass? Click here for details.
Don will be appearing the the 'Louder Than Words' literary festival in Manchester on Saturday 15 November at the Palace Hotel, Oxford Street, M60 7HA.
Don will be doing "An audience with..." at 3.15pm in the Directors Suite. He will be interviewed by Alwyn Turner and the event lasts until 4.45pm.
After the event Don will be doing book signings in the Post Room from 5pm-5.30pm. (Don's book will be available to be purchased at the event).
Tickets for Don's "Audience with..." session are only £7 and are available by clicking here.
Also appearing on the same day as Don are Edwyn Collins and Viv Albertine (The Slits).... So if you fancy catching them too, why not get an all day pass? Click here for details.
Surprise Surprise
Don receives quite a few emails via the website from fans requesting autographs and bits and pieces. As we have mentioned before, Don physically cannot respond to all the requests, but tries to help out when he can.
A couple of week's ago, Don received an email from the friend of a very poorly Slade fan, who was trying to get a message from Noddy Holder.
The email Don received was:
For Don's Personal Attention:
"Dear Don
I am emailing to ask if there is any way you could kindly help me to bring a little spark of happiness to a long time friend of mine who has very few months left to live as she is in the last throes of ovarian cancer. Her name is Diane and we both live in Faversham, Kent. She is 55 yrs old and being very brave.
She has always been a mad keen fan of Slade, and particularly Noddy Holder. I have not a clue how to get in touch with him. But it would make her so happy to maybe have a signed card or something like that from him. She does not know I am emailing to request this.
I am happy to forward her address, and contact tel nos etc if you needed them. Please let me know, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that you could help to bring a little cheer to her last few months.
Thank you very much in anticipation.
Kind Regards, Mary."
Don forwarded the email request to Nod and the message was picked up by Nod's PA as Nod was out of the country.
Don was delighted to be copied in to a further email from Mary this week, sent to Nod, which said:
"I am just back from a weekend in The Hague and was delighted to hear from my friend Diane that she has received communication from Noddy. She was over the moon and could not work out who had contacted him! She enquired of all her friends, and finally me, never thinking it was me. (I lived in Somalia during the seventies and sadly missed out on much of popular music in that decade and had admitted to her when she was talking whimsically of Noddy, that I had never heard of him, although I had heard of Slade !!).
Anyway it has made her day to hear from him and she is twittering wildly to all her other friends of her surprise communication from him.
Thank you so much for bringing my request to Noddy's attention and please pass on my thanks to him for his kindness. I went to see her this evening and she was looking bright so I was happy (She had a particularly horrible day yesterday with her condition).
Meantime, I have passed on your email address to her, I hope you don't mind but she wanted to send a message of thanks as well.
With warmest regards, Mary".
A couple of week's ago, Don received an email from the friend of a very poorly Slade fan, who was trying to get a message from Noddy Holder.
The email Don received was:
For Don's Personal Attention:
"Dear Don
I am emailing to ask if there is any way you could kindly help me to bring a little spark of happiness to a long time friend of mine who has very few months left to live as she is in the last throes of ovarian cancer. Her name is Diane and we both live in Faversham, Kent. She is 55 yrs old and being very brave.
She has always been a mad keen fan of Slade, and particularly Noddy Holder. I have not a clue how to get in touch with him. But it would make her so happy to maybe have a signed card or something like that from him. She does not know I am emailing to request this.
I am happy to forward her address, and contact tel nos etc if you needed them. Please let me know, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that you could help to bring a little cheer to her last few months.
Thank you very much in anticipation.
Kind Regards, Mary."
Don forwarded the email request to Nod and the message was picked up by Nod's PA as Nod was out of the country.
Don was delighted to be copied in to a further email from Mary this week, sent to Nod, which said:
"I am just back from a weekend in The Hague and was delighted to hear from my friend Diane that she has received communication from Noddy. She was over the moon and could not work out who had contacted him! She enquired of all her friends, and finally me, never thinking it was me. (I lived in Somalia during the seventies and sadly missed out on much of popular music in that decade and had admitted to her when she was talking whimsically of Noddy, that I had never heard of him, although I had heard of Slade !!).
Anyway it has made her day to hear from him and she is twittering wildly to all her other friends of her surprise communication from him.
Thank you so much for bringing my request to Noddy's attention and please pass on my thanks to him for his kindness. I went to see her this evening and she was looking bright so I was happy (She had a particularly horrible day yesterday with her condition).
Meantime, I have passed on your email address to her, I hope you don't mind but she wanted to send a message of thanks as well.
With warmest regards, Mary".
Steve Grantley interviews Don
Steve Grantley, the co-writer of the Slade book 'Cum On Feel The Noize: The Story of Slade', has interviewed Don for the Mike Dolbear Drums website. The interview features in the British Drum Icons section of the site...
It's a good interview - to read it click here.
It's a good interview - to read it click here.
Radio 2 mentions...
Thanks to Sue Wilson for letting us know of a few Don / Slade mentions on Radio 2 yesterday (24 September).
First, on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show, Don was mentioned several times in the 'Top Tenous' drumsticks feature... Numerous fans were texting the show saying that they had caught drumsticks that Don had thrown into the crowd at Slade gigs.
Then, on the Ken Bruce Show, Ken mentioned about Don taking part in DrumBeat 2014 in Manchester (on 21 November) and he played Slade's 'How Does It Feel'.....
First, on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show, Don was mentioned several times in the 'Top Tenous' drumsticks feature... Numerous fans were texting the show saying that they had caught drumsticks that Don had thrown into the crowd at Slade gigs.
Then, on the Ken Bruce Show, Ken mentioned about Don taking part in DrumBeat 2014 in Manchester (on 21 November) and he played Slade's 'How Does It Feel'.....
"Miles Out To Sea" flyer emerges...
The Synagogue after Slade's party in 1973
Thanks to Dave Graham for making us aware of the Slade flyer (above) that has appeared on the internet over the last few weeks.
The flyer was used to promote / allow admittance to Slade's private party at the (Beth Israel) Synagogue on Geary at Fillmore Street, San Francisco on 5 May 1973.
At the time Slade were appearing at Winterland in San Francisco on 5th and 6th May 1973. The private party took place at the Synagogue at midnight after the first show... It was a wild affair that prompted Holder and Lea to write "Miles Out To Sea" that featured on the 1974 Slade album "Old, New, Borrowed and Blue". Slade historian Chris Selby has been in touch with Don and he has confirmed that the flyer definitely was for the famous Slade party...
The synagogue is also mentioned on this web page. Click here.
The flyer was used to promote / allow admittance to Slade's private party at the (Beth Israel) Synagogue on Geary at Fillmore Street, San Francisco on 5 May 1973.
At the time Slade were appearing at Winterland in San Francisco on 5th and 6th May 1973. The private party took place at the Synagogue at midnight after the first show... It was a wild affair that prompted Holder and Lea to write "Miles Out To Sea" that featured on the 1974 Slade album "Old, New, Borrowed and Blue". Slade historian Chris Selby has been in touch with Don and he has confirmed that the flyer definitely was for the famous Slade party...
The synagogue is also mentioned on this web page. Click here.
MILES OUT TO SEA - LYRICS (Holder / Lea)
From the corner of my eye
I was looking out and why
To see all the things we did
To see hope in where we hid
From the outside looking in
Was a stranger with a grin
Seeing bombhead on a rope
He was swinging high and low
high and low
Chorus
We were miles out to sea
Did we float you and me
Maybe one day we'll go back for more
We were miles From the bay
Did we float I should say
Maybe next time we'll leave from the shore
From the corner of my eye
I was looking out and why
There were sounds you never heard
Anfd then dump was the new word
Look at last night was that night
A sharp lady got it right
We sang songs from cabaret
And we laughed the night away
right away
Chorus
The mad monk was such a sight
Red hair hanging in the light
And a temple to call home
Is he living there alone
From the outside looking in
Was a stranger with a grin
He saw all the things we did
We saw hope in where we hid
Yes we did
Chorus
From the corner of my eye
I was looking out and why
To see all the things we did
To see hope in where we hid
From the outside looking in
Was a stranger with a grin
Seeing bombhead on a rope
He was swinging high and low
high and low
Chorus
We were miles out to sea
Did we float you and me
Maybe one day we'll go back for more
We were miles From the bay
Did we float I should say
Maybe next time we'll leave from the shore
From the corner of my eye
I was looking out and why
There were sounds you never heard
Anfd then dump was the new word
Look at last night was that night
A sharp lady got it right
We sang songs from cabaret
And we laughed the night away
right away
Chorus
The mad monk was such a sight
Red hair hanging in the light
And a temple to call home
Is he living there alone
From the outside looking in
Was a stranger with a grin
He saw all the things we did
We saw hope in where we hid
Yes we did
Chorus
DrumBeat 2014 update...
As mentioned on an earlier thread on this news page, Don will be attending DrumBeat 2014 at Event City, Manchester on Friday 21 November.
Thanks to John Berry for forwarding the scan (left) of the advert in this month's Rhythm magazine which includes an updated list of celebrity drummers also attending.
For all information about the event click here.
The DrumBeat 2014 event is raising funds for the Brain Tumor Society - if you would like to sponsor Don at the event click here. Alternatively, please link below.
Thanks to John Berry for forwarding the scan (left) of the advert in this month's Rhythm magazine which includes an updated list of celebrity drummers also attending.
For all information about the event click here.
The DrumBeat 2014 event is raising funds for the Brain Tumor Society - if you would like to sponsor Don at the event click here. Alternatively, please link below.
"Audience with Don..." £7 session tickets now available - Sat 15 November
We mentioned in an article below that Don will be appearing at the 'Louder Than Words' festival at the Palace Hotel, Manchester on Saturday 15 November.
He will have an "Audience with..." conversation with glam author Alwyn Turner at 3.15pm.
The 'Louder Than Words' website states: "Don Powell, drummer of Slade, joins us in conversation with Alwyn Turner. They discuss 'Look Wot I Dun' - and discuss Don's life story that spans his boy scout roots as a drummer, his early life as a musician, the magic Slade line-up, glitter, glam and No1 hits, his terrible car-crash and the after-shocks, a sojourn in America, his return to the UK and more latterly his continued touring with Dave Hill as Slade."
Also, on the 'Louder Than Words' website, under the 'Contributors' section, they say of Don:
"Don Powell was born in Bilston, just outside of Wolverhampton, West Midlands on 10 September 1946.
He became interested in playing drums whilst in the Boy Scouts. In 1963 Don joined his first band. They were The Vendors. In this band he was later joined by Dave Hill. Eventually Don and Dave formed a band called the ‘N Betweens in 1964. They then recruited Jim Lea and finally Noddy Holder – and thus created the band that went on to be called Slade.
Slade had their first hit single in 1971, it was called ‘Get Down and Get With It’. In October that year they hit No1 in the UK with ‘Coz I Luv You’. In the space of the following four years Slade had string of hits that included six No1 singles, three No2 singles and two that made No3. In the mid 1970′s the band emigrated to the United States for two years. They later returned to the UK to have further hits in the 1980′s, which included ‘My Oh My’ and ‘Run Runaway’.
In 1992 Noddy Holder and Jim Lea decided to leave the band. However, Don and Dave Hill have continued touring as Slade – and still play successful gigs, not only in the UK, but all over Europe, Poland and Russia."
Tickets for Don's session cost just £7 and can be purchased on this link. (Waterstones will be selling copies of 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade' at the event - and a signing session will also take place).
To see the 'Louder Than Words' general website page click here.
He will have an "Audience with..." conversation with glam author Alwyn Turner at 3.15pm.
The 'Louder Than Words' website states: "Don Powell, drummer of Slade, joins us in conversation with Alwyn Turner. They discuss 'Look Wot I Dun' - and discuss Don's life story that spans his boy scout roots as a drummer, his early life as a musician, the magic Slade line-up, glitter, glam and No1 hits, his terrible car-crash and the after-shocks, a sojourn in America, his return to the UK and more latterly his continued touring with Dave Hill as Slade."
Also, on the 'Louder Than Words' website, under the 'Contributors' section, they say of Don:
"Don Powell was born in Bilston, just outside of Wolverhampton, West Midlands on 10 September 1946.
He became interested in playing drums whilst in the Boy Scouts. In 1963 Don joined his first band. They were The Vendors. In this band he was later joined by Dave Hill. Eventually Don and Dave formed a band called the ‘N Betweens in 1964. They then recruited Jim Lea and finally Noddy Holder – and thus created the band that went on to be called Slade.
Slade had their first hit single in 1971, it was called ‘Get Down and Get With It’. In October that year they hit No1 in the UK with ‘Coz I Luv You’. In the space of the following four years Slade had string of hits that included six No1 singles, three No2 singles and two that made No3. In the mid 1970′s the band emigrated to the United States for two years. They later returned to the UK to have further hits in the 1980′s, which included ‘My Oh My’ and ‘Run Runaway’.
In 1992 Noddy Holder and Jim Lea decided to leave the band. However, Don and Dave Hill have continued touring as Slade – and still play successful gigs, not only in the UK, but all over Europe, Poland and Russia."
Tickets for Don's session cost just £7 and can be purchased on this link. (Waterstones will be selling copies of 'Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade' at the event - and a signing session will also take place).
To see the 'Louder Than Words' general website page click here.
Christmas Party with Slade...
Slade are playing a special Christmas show on the Saturday before Christmas - Saturday 20th December... The show is at the Peterborough Arena - and price includes a festive meal. For deals click here.
Don't forget Slade's other UK Christmas shows at Mill Rythe, Hayling Island (nr Portsmouth) on Sunday 14 December - click here - and at The Robin, Bilston on Thursday 18 December - click here.
Don't forget Slade's other UK Christmas shows at Mill Rythe, Hayling Island (nr Portsmouth) on Sunday 14 December - click here - and at The Robin, Bilston on Thursday 18 December - click here.
Don's Ice Bucket challenge...
Webmaster challenged Don to do the ALS Ice Bucket challenge... and true to form, Don did the said task...
However, out of respect to the Charlie Chaplin silent movies that Don loves, he didn't record any sound! (???)
This does not take anything away from the delight of seeing Don get soaked.... Enjoy.
However, out of respect to the Charlie Chaplin silent movies that Don loves, he didn't record any sound! (???)
This does not take anything away from the delight of seeing Don get soaked.... Enjoy.
Don's Birthday message...
Don supports "Rock Against Cancer"
Don recently went to the The Kings Arms in All Cannings in the Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire with his mate Andy Scott (of Sweet).
They were supporting the Rock Against Cancer event, and Don "donned" the t-shirt... Click here for details.
They were supporting the Rock Against Cancer event, and Don "donned" the t-shirt... Click here for details.
Thanks for the birthday wishes...
Message from Don's wife Hanne:
"On behalf of my dear husband, I would like to thank family, friends and Slade fans from near and far, for the overwhelming amounts of wonderful birthday wishes, cards, presents and flowers that Don received yesterday! Right now Don is on his way to Norway where he is playing a concert tomorrow, so he's unable to thank all of you who was so kind to think of him on his 68th birthday. So... once again on behalf of Don; a big THANK YOU!!.. and Keep on Rockin'!!!! " - Hanne
"On behalf of my dear husband, I would like to thank family, friends and Slade fans from near and far, for the overwhelming amounts of wonderful birthday wishes, cards, presents and flowers that Don received yesterday! Right now Don is on his way to Norway where he is playing a concert tomorrow, so he's unable to thank all of you who was so kind to think of him on his 68th birthday. So... once again on behalf of Don; a big THANK YOU!!.. and Keep on Rockin'!!!! " - Hanne
Don to appear at the 'Louder Than Words Festival' in Manchester
Don is pleased to announce that he will be appearing at the Louder Than Words festival in Manchester in November.
Louder Than Words is a brand new genre-based literary Festival associated with the music industry. The festival has the support, backing and trust of The Arts Council England and Level Partnerships.
The Manchester weekend Festival runs from Friday 14th November - Sunday 16th November and is based at a single location – the prestigious Palace Hotel. It is here where all involved can meet to hear, share, discuss and celebrate the best of published and unpublished words associated with music and popular culture industries.
Unlike Frank Zappa’s much quoted interpretation of music-writing, Louder Than Words promotes the craft, conducts interviews with thinking people, encourages reading and aims to develop artistic appreciation of all-comers through engagement
Louder Than Words includes ‘in conversation with…’ sessions, panel discussions, interviews, workshops, performances and casual opportunities for engaging with associated professionals; each encouraging interaction and engagement with performers, authors, editors, publicists, reviewers, press, artists and aficionados.
To see access the Louder Than Words festival website click here. (The website does not specificially mention Don's appearance yet - but those details will be uploaded in the next few days).
Louder Than Words is a brand new genre-based literary Festival associated with the music industry. The festival has the support, backing and trust of The Arts Council England and Level Partnerships.
The Manchester weekend Festival runs from Friday 14th November - Sunday 16th November and is based at a single location – the prestigious Palace Hotel. It is here where all involved can meet to hear, share, discuss and celebrate the best of published and unpublished words associated with music and popular culture industries.
Unlike Frank Zappa’s much quoted interpretation of music-writing, Louder Than Words promotes the craft, conducts interviews with thinking people, encourages reading and aims to develop artistic appreciation of all-comers through engagement
Louder Than Words includes ‘in conversation with…’ sessions, panel discussions, interviews, workshops, performances and casual opportunities for engaging with associated professionals; each encouraging interaction and engagement with performers, authors, editors, publicists, reviewers, press, artists and aficionados.
To see access the Louder Than Words festival website click here. (The website does not specificially mention Don's appearance yet - but those details will be uploaded in the next few days).
Don is scheduled to appear at the festival at 3.15pm on Saturday 15th November - and he will be doing an 'in conversation with...' session. This will involve him talking about and discussing the book "Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade" - which he wrote with Lise Lyng Falkenberg - with glam fan Alwyn Turner - who was the author of "Glam Rock - Dandies In The Underworld".
The festival's book partner - Waterstones - will arrange for copies of Don's book to be available to purchase at the festival. A signing session for Don has also been arranged in the programme of events.
At present there is an opportunity to purchase 'early bird' tickets for the full weekend of the festival, or tickets just for the Saturday. For details click here. However the sale of 'session by session' tickets (where you can purchase just tickets for Don's Saturday session, if that is your requirement) will follow in about a week.
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MORE DETAILS. In the meantime, if you just want to buy a copy of "Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade" click here.
The festival's book partner - Waterstones - will arrange for copies of Don's book to be available to purchase at the festival. A signing session for Don has also been arranged in the programme of events.
At present there is an opportunity to purchase 'early bird' tickets for the full weekend of the festival, or tickets just for the Saturday. For details click here. However the sale of 'session by session' tickets (where you can purchase just tickets for Don's Saturday session, if that is your requirement) will follow in about a week.
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR MORE DETAILS. In the meantime, if you just want to buy a copy of "Look Wot I Dun - My Life In Slade" click here.
Slade Book?
Don is aware of the following email and thinks that it should be mentioned on his website...
"SLADE FANS UNITE...
I'm here to let you know about an exciting project.
A friend/music writer who's authored over 15 music books is a huge Slade fan and has conducted extensive interviews with all four original members of Slade; the interviews total a whopping 45,000 words. I've asked him over the years to assemble these informative conversations with Noddy, Jim, Dave and Don into a book and he is willing to do this. I've had the pleasure of reading all the interviews and think the fans would love it.
The book would be produced as a limited edition pocket paperback, number approx 200 pages or more, and cost between $15-20 plus shipping
In order to raise the necessary funds to produce a limited number of books, pay for a designer, license photos, production, he'd need a minimum of 250-300 committed buyers to make this a reality otherwise the project would be too cost prohibitive .
So I encourage those who want to own this book in their hands to contact me here or via an email (slade25@hotmail.com) soonest to guage interest on whether this project goes forth and if you'd definitely buy a copy. This book will be done professionally but it is basically a "by the fan for the fans" effort and one that will be a real keepsake. You won't be disappointed !"
"SLADE FANS UNITE...
I'm here to let you know about an exciting project.
A friend/music writer who's authored over 15 music books is a huge Slade fan and has conducted extensive interviews with all four original members of Slade; the interviews total a whopping 45,000 words. I've asked him over the years to assemble these informative conversations with Noddy, Jim, Dave and Don into a book and he is willing to do this. I've had the pleasure of reading all the interviews and think the fans would love it.
The book would be produced as a limited edition pocket paperback, number approx 200 pages or more, and cost between $15-20 plus shipping
In order to raise the necessary funds to produce a limited number of books, pay for a designer, license photos, production, he'd need a minimum of 250-300 committed buyers to make this a reality otherwise the project would be too cost prohibitive .
So I encourage those who want to own this book in their hands to contact me here or via an email (slade25@hotmail.com) soonest to guage interest on whether this project goes forth and if you'd definitely buy a copy. This book will be done professionally but it is basically a "by the fan for the fans" effort and one that will be a real keepsake. You won't be disappointed !"
Don does the ALS Ice Bucket challenge... but you can't see it!
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The latest craze sweeping the nation is the Ice Bucket challenge...
Webmaster challenged Don to do the task. He gladly (?) accepted and did the deed. However, we can not show you the video. It did not record correctly on his iPad. This could only happen to Don! Don has therefore agreed to do the challenge for a 2nd time. (Let's hope it records this time!) We will share the wet results with you soon... |
Don supports drumBEAT! 2014 - get involved!
Don is pleased to announce that he will be attending and supporting drumBEAT! 2014...
Don was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Kate Fenney - who lost her battle with a brain tumour. Kate was the wife of ex-Slade band mate - Craig Fenney. In her memory, Craig is helping organise drumBEAT! 2014 - which will take place at EventCity, Urmston, Manchester on Friday 21st November. The event hopes to attract 1,001 drummers to attend and play drums together for 5 minutes - and beat the Guinness world record of 798 drummers (from 2012). The event is also remembering the deaths of Kate McBay (Guitar Guitar founder) and Jon Brookes (Charlatans drummer) - with event being put together by the combined force of Marshall Amplification, Natal Drums and The Music Shipping Company. |
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At the same time organisers are hoping to raise £100,000 for the Brain Tumour Society charity - through registration fees and sponsorship.
CELEBRITY DRUMMERS
Celebrity drummers confirmed to attend so far are:
Don Powell (Slade)
Paul Burgess (10CC)
Graham Hopkins (Glen Hansard)
Jason Cooper (The Cure)
Craig Blundell (Independent)
Robin Guy (Independent)
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Please click here for the webpage for drumBEAT! 2014. Please share the link!
If you are a drummer - please try to attend!
If you are not a drummer - please spread the word by sharing event links through social media of Facebook and Twitter.
PLEASE HELP BY SPONSORING DON AT drumBEAT! 2014 - ALL DONATIONS, NO MATTER HOW LARGE OR SMALL, GO DIRECT TO THE BRAIN TUMOUR SOCIETY. PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW.
CELEBRITY DRUMMERS
Celebrity drummers confirmed to attend so far are:
Don Powell (Slade)
Paul Burgess (10CC)
Graham Hopkins (Glen Hansard)
Jason Cooper (The Cure)
Craig Blundell (Independent)
Robin Guy (Independent)
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Please click here for the webpage for drumBEAT! 2014. Please share the link!
If you are a drummer - please try to attend!
If you are not a drummer - please spread the word by sharing event links through social media of Facebook and Twitter.
PLEASE HELP BY SPONSORING DON AT drumBEAT! 2014 - ALL DONATIONS, NO MATTER HOW LARGE OR SMALL, GO DIRECT TO THE BRAIN TUMOUR SOCIETY. PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW.
Ludwig poster from 1984
One event that Don talks about, although he can't remember many of the details, was his "Lost Weekend" - meeting up with 74 other Ludwig drummers in Chicago in 1984.
Thanks to John Shearer, who was drummer with rock band Hurricane at the time, for letting us see the poster he was presented with at the end of the weekend. (Don lost his copy years ago). John is pictured to the left of Don as you look at the poster - he confirms that he and Don were holding each other up for the pic!
Thanks to John Shearer, who was drummer with rock band Hurricane at the time, for letting us see the poster he was presented with at the end of the weekend. (Don lost his copy years ago). John is pictured to the left of Don as you look at the poster - he confirms that he and Don were holding each other up for the pic!
Don in the Wolverhampton Chronicle
The Wolverhampton Chronicle this week featured an article about Don attending the Bilston Craft Gallery's Garden Party last week.
Thanks to Gary Jordan for emailing the article.
Thanks to Gary Jordan for emailing the article.
Chris Selby interview
Chris and Don - August 2014
Chris Selby is the “Slade Historian”. He has collected data and compiled the list of past Slade gigs that is used on this site. (Not only Slade dates – but he has tracked the gigs by Don’s previous bands the Vendors, and other Slade incarnations of the ‘N Betweens and Ambrose Slade). Elsewhere he has lists of past gigs for all the other original Slade members' other bands.
We thought we would ask him some questions about his research and background.
How did you first hear of Slade and get into them?
I first "discovered" them in late 1969. I had just started senior school and one day after school I was on the 'bus to Walsall with a few mates..the 'bus went through the Beechdale estate... We saw a bunch of skinheads hanging around outside a house. It would be a few years before I knew it was Nod's parents house... At the time someone piped up that they were a pop group, and one of them was called Noddy! This caused great amusement, but the skinhead image was something that stuck in my mind.
Which was the first Slade gig you went to – and what are your memories of it?
January 1970 - Aldridge Community Centre... My biggest memories seem to be of getting to and from the gig and the audience. We were 12/13 year old kids with no idea of what to expect.. It was very loud.. I have no idea what they played - a violin was used but other that that no idea.. I saw them a few more times before they made the charts but I couldn't give you a set list.. The only comparison I can give is that it was like going to a school disco - meet your mates - prat about - then come home.
What made you start collecting data / and compiling a comprehensive list about past Slade gigs?
I'd been intrigued with the group's story for a long time. Reading some of the stuff that used to be printed in the pop magazines didn't always ring true. I think at one point paper's would have you believe Jim was a pro-musician touring the country at 14, and at 16 he was in the Bahamas. Chris Charlesworth's book got closer to the truth, but it was the publication of Nods book that set me off in search of the facts. I knew all of the places he was talking about and it turned out that I knew a few of the people he knew. So I set out to see exactly how much undiscovered stuff was out there. The 1st April 1966 Walsall Town Hall gig was the 1st target.
What did you use to create your initial list of dates? Was it fan club magazines or music newspapers?
There was a gig list floating around the internet, but I think it didn't really start until 1970. I think it had a few 1960's gigs listed, so I used that as a start. It didn't take me long to realise it was not very accurate. I went to Walsall local history centre which has an archive of the Walsall Observer newspaper. My first target was the April 1st 1966 gig, and the rest is (Slade) history.
How did you feel when you found out the (supposed) 1st April 1966 gig didn't happen (or you could find no record of it). Why do you think it was publicised that it did?
I was slightly disappointed that something that was supposed to be Slade gospel turned out to be not true or not accurate..I have since learned not to rely on peoples memories so anything I discover now is always a bonus.
As far as I know, and I would love to proved wrong, the April 1st 1966 story first appeared around the time of the release of the Nobodys Fools LP and 45 in 1976. It tied in with the group being together for 10 years. So the suggestion that the group had played together for the first time at Walsall Town Hall on April fools day made perfect sense. You can imagine the Polydor publicity department having a drink out of it. Why let a good story get in way of the facts?
Do you have any contact with the Slade members – do they know about your research and what do they think of it?
Don is a regular contact. Dave joins in now, and then and I know Nod and Jim are aware :-)
Any idea of how many Slade dates (of Slade and related bands) you have on your list?
Probably 1,500+ I must count them one day.
How many Slade dates do you think that you have “found” yourself and added to the list?
Pre Chart gigs? 1,000ish and I'd say I've found and confirmed 99% of them. From 1972 onwards their gigs were fairly well documented, but the American dates are still a bit of a mystery. I'd like to see Dons diaries from his USA days.
Have many people helped you with your research?
Yes - it's impossible to do everything on your own - Micky Parker, David Graham, Ian Edmundson and James Craig come to mind come to mind, but their are others who have helped.
I know that readers of Don’s site are really grateful for the well compiled list that is published. How can fans help you find “missing” dates? What do they need to do?
I need evidence - a copy of a ticket, poster or advert - anything that confirms the date. Not every gig was advertised in the early days so a firm clue might help. Someone saying "my mate saw them in Birmingham when they were Ambrose Slade" is interesting but no use. They were Ambrose Slade for nearly 12 months. If anyone wants to help please contact me. The research is easy and it might prove to be interesting. I'll guide you through what to do and if you find something it will go on Don's site.
We thought we would ask him some questions about his research and background.
How did you first hear of Slade and get into them?
I first "discovered" them in late 1969. I had just started senior school and one day after school I was on the 'bus to Walsall with a few mates..the 'bus went through the Beechdale estate... We saw a bunch of skinheads hanging around outside a house. It would be a few years before I knew it was Nod's parents house... At the time someone piped up that they were a pop group, and one of them was called Noddy! This caused great amusement, but the skinhead image was something that stuck in my mind.
Which was the first Slade gig you went to – and what are your memories of it?
January 1970 - Aldridge Community Centre... My biggest memories seem to be of getting to and from the gig and the audience. We were 12/13 year old kids with no idea of what to expect.. It was very loud.. I have no idea what they played - a violin was used but other that that no idea.. I saw them a few more times before they made the charts but I couldn't give you a set list.. The only comparison I can give is that it was like going to a school disco - meet your mates - prat about - then come home.
What made you start collecting data / and compiling a comprehensive list about past Slade gigs?
I'd been intrigued with the group's story for a long time. Reading some of the stuff that used to be printed in the pop magazines didn't always ring true. I think at one point paper's would have you believe Jim was a pro-musician touring the country at 14, and at 16 he was in the Bahamas. Chris Charlesworth's book got closer to the truth, but it was the publication of Nods book that set me off in search of the facts. I knew all of the places he was talking about and it turned out that I knew a few of the people he knew. So I set out to see exactly how much undiscovered stuff was out there. The 1st April 1966 Walsall Town Hall gig was the 1st target.
What did you use to create your initial list of dates? Was it fan club magazines or music newspapers?
There was a gig list floating around the internet, but I think it didn't really start until 1970. I think it had a few 1960's gigs listed, so I used that as a start. It didn't take me long to realise it was not very accurate. I went to Walsall local history centre which has an archive of the Walsall Observer newspaper. My first target was the April 1st 1966 gig, and the rest is (Slade) history.
How did you feel when you found out the (supposed) 1st April 1966 gig didn't happen (or you could find no record of it). Why do you think it was publicised that it did?
I was slightly disappointed that something that was supposed to be Slade gospel turned out to be not true or not accurate..I have since learned not to rely on peoples memories so anything I discover now is always a bonus.
As far as I know, and I would love to proved wrong, the April 1st 1966 story first appeared around the time of the release of the Nobodys Fools LP and 45 in 1976. It tied in with the group being together for 10 years. So the suggestion that the group had played together for the first time at Walsall Town Hall on April fools day made perfect sense. You can imagine the Polydor publicity department having a drink out of it. Why let a good story get in way of the facts?
Do you have any contact with the Slade members – do they know about your research and what do they think of it?
Don is a regular contact. Dave joins in now, and then and I know Nod and Jim are aware :-)
Any idea of how many Slade dates (of Slade and related bands) you have on your list?
Probably 1,500+ I must count them one day.
How many Slade dates do you think that you have “found” yourself and added to the list?
Pre Chart gigs? 1,000ish and I'd say I've found and confirmed 99% of them. From 1972 onwards their gigs were fairly well documented, but the American dates are still a bit of a mystery. I'd like to see Dons diaries from his USA days.
Have many people helped you with your research?
Yes - it's impossible to do everything on your own - Micky Parker, David Graham, Ian Edmundson and James Craig come to mind come to mind, but their are others who have helped.
I know that readers of Don’s site are really grateful for the well compiled list that is published. How can fans help you find “missing” dates? What do they need to do?
I need evidence - a copy of a ticket, poster or advert - anything that confirms the date. Not every gig was advertised in the early days so a firm clue might help. Someone saying "my mate saw them in Birmingham when they were Ambrose Slade" is interesting but no use. They were Ambrose Slade for nearly 12 months. If anyone wants to help please contact me. The research is easy and it might prove to be interesting. I'll guide you through what to do and if you find something it will go on Don's site.
What was the most “wow” date that you found yourself ?
The 1966 Willenhall Bath's gig with Cream and Listen is the one I would have wanted to see - but the discovery of any "new" appearance is always a eureka moment.
What country is the most difficult when it comes to finding out info about past Slade gigs?
Their are a few - North America and Canada (because of their size) and Wales..I have no idea why, but if any fans from Wales want to help PLEASE contact me.
With all the research you have – how is it stored? Is it on paper / computer – do you back it up?
I have a paper copy of every advert, flyer etc and dates are stored on computer and paper.
When do you think your work will finish?
There is no end. I was sent a couple of gig adverts today which confirmed known dates. I spend too much time visiting archives.....my wife is very understanding :-)
If you can possibly help Chris research any missing Slade gigs, please contact him by email at christopher.selby1@btinternet.com
The 1966 Willenhall Bath's gig with Cream and Listen is the one I would have wanted to see - but the discovery of any "new" appearance is always a eureka moment.
What country is the most difficult when it comes to finding out info about past Slade gigs?
Their are a few - North America and Canada (because of their size) and Wales..I have no idea why, but if any fans from Wales want to help PLEASE contact me.
With all the research you have – how is it stored? Is it on paper / computer – do you back it up?
I have a paper copy of every advert, flyer etc and dates are stored on computer and paper.
When do you think your work will finish?
There is no end. I was sent a couple of gig adverts today which confirmed known dates. I spend too much time visiting archives.....my wife is very understanding :-)
If you can possibly help Chris research any missing Slade gigs, please contact him by email at christopher.selby1@btinternet.com
"Freedom of Bilston" Facebook Group
Don was pleased to receive an email from Ian Edwards.
Ian has opened a Facebook group to highlight that he thinks Don should be given the Freedoom of Bilston.
On the group page on 11 August Ian wrote: "With respect I have changed this page to "Make Don Powell a Freeman of Bilston" as Don is a Bilston man. I think the page should be relevant to his hometown, as Walsall did with Noddy Holder. He is one of Bilston's own, and I think that is more relevant. Etheridge educated, lived on Stowlawn, proper Bilston ay he folks, and he never forgot where home was BILSTON."
The group is called DON POWELL MAKE HIM A FREEMAN OF BILSTON TOWN. Please join the group if you would like to support Ian, and Don.
For a link to the Facebook Group click here.
Ian has opened a Facebook group to highlight that he thinks Don should be given the Freedoom of Bilston.
On the group page on 11 August Ian wrote: "With respect I have changed this page to "Make Don Powell a Freeman of Bilston" as Don is a Bilston man. I think the page should be relevant to his hometown, as Walsall did with Noddy Holder. He is one of Bilston's own, and I think that is more relevant. Etheridge educated, lived on Stowlawn, proper Bilston ay he folks, and he never forgot where home was BILSTON."
The group is called DON POWELL MAKE HIM A FREEMAN OF BILSTON TOWN. Please join the group if you would like to support Ian, and Don.
For a link to the Facebook Group click here.
Don remembers the Slade Roller...
Don remembers how the Slade Roller wasn't quite as good as it looked...
"Our manager, Chas Chandler, bought us the Rolls Royce. It looked good - but it was really rubbish, always breaking down.
We were still using it in 1978. We used it for a gig in Andover - and while it was parked, I had my suitcase stolen from the boot. Even when the boot was locked, all you had to do was yank the handle and it would open. That was exactly what happened in Andover.
My case had everything in it... My keys, credit cards, stage clothes, diary etc. When it went missing I thought I would never get it back. I was really surprised when the local police called and said they had recovered it.
Apparently two young lads had stolen it. They got caught because they used my credit card and wined and dined two young ladies in a restaurant. Later that evening they wined and dined another two young ladies in the same restaurant. The waiter got suspicious and phoned the credit card company...
When the police arrested the guys they found my suitcase in one of their parent's garages covered in tarpaulin... They hadn't touched anything apart from my credit cards. It was great to get my case back."
"Our manager, Chas Chandler, bought us the Rolls Royce. It looked good - but it was really rubbish, always breaking down.
We were still using it in 1978. We used it for a gig in Andover - and while it was parked, I had my suitcase stolen from the boot. Even when the boot was locked, all you had to do was yank the handle and it would open. That was exactly what happened in Andover.
My case had everything in it... My keys, credit cards, stage clothes, diary etc. When it went missing I thought I would never get it back. I was really surprised when the local police called and said they had recovered it.
Apparently two young lads had stolen it. They got caught because they used my credit card and wined and dined two young ladies in a restaurant. Later that evening they wined and dined another two young ladies in the same restaurant. The waiter got suspicious and phoned the credit card company...
When the police arrested the guys they found my suitcase in one of their parent's garages covered in tarpaulin... They hadn't touched anything apart from my credit cards. It was great to get my case back."
Don updates his diary with Bilston trip...
Don has updated his diary page with entries for his Bilston trip last week.... Click here and scroll to the end of the page to read it.
Wolverhampton Station - shopping trips to London
Wolverhampton Station
A Julian design
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When Don stayed in Wolverhampton last week, the hotel he chose to use was next to Wolverhampton Rail Station...
Passing through the station, it reminded Don of the late 1960's and early 1970's when the band would often meet at the station - for travel to London for clothes shopping.... The band would buy cheap day return tickets - and Don remembers that the cost was two guineas! Once in London the four guys would head straight to Carnaby Street and Kensington Market - and buy whatever took their fancy. It was in Kensington Market that Slade first came across fashion designer / stall holder Freddie Bulsara (Freddie Mercury). Although Don himself cannot actually remember meeting him, he says that Nod can. "Nod distinctly remembers Freddie saying to him that he was going to be a rockstar - and he was going to be bigger than him!" |
In 1973 Don started to use a clothes designer, based in Kensington Market, called Julian. He would custom make all of Don's stage gear. It was Julian who came up with the idea of dressing Don in the stripy outfits - which often comprised of stripy waistcoats and matching trousers. He even once designed accompanying stripy boots! However, after a couple of years, Don felt that Julian's designs were becoming poorer quality - so he went elsewhere for his stage gear.
Footnote: What happened to Don's stage gear designed by Julian? Don admits that after wearing the outfits on concert tours, or Top Of The Pops, that he bagged them up, and gave them to a local charity shop... The only Julian outfit known to still be in existance is the outfit shown in the pic above (used to promote "Everyday" in 1974) - which Don's mum gave to a fan, and they still own it to this day.
Footnote: What happened to Don's stage gear designed by Julian? Don admits that after wearing the outfits on concert tours, or Top Of The Pops, that he bagged them up, and gave them to a local charity shop... The only Julian outfit known to still be in existance is the outfit shown in the pic above (used to promote "Everyday" in 1974) - which Don's mum gave to a fan, and they still own it to this day.
What could have been in the USA...
Bill Graham (1931-1991)
Don gave some detail this week of what "could have been" in the USA.
Slade tried from 1972 to crack America. In 1975 they actually relocated to the States (full time) to concentrate on trying to break the American market. It didn't happen. Throughout the whole process Chas Chandler managed the band...
Don has recalled that in around 1991/1992 he was on holiday in New York and he met up with Bob Meyrowitz - who had been Slade's representative in the States.
Bob told Don a story, that he had never heard before, about famous music promoter Bill Graham.
Bill Graham was one of the most powerful promoters in the USA. He actually owned the famous venues Fillmore East (in New York) and Fillmore West (San Francisco) and later went on to own Winterland in San Francisco. He promoted gigs for major bands such as The Doobie Brothers, Santana and Greatful Dead. It was Bill who promoted the highly successful Slade gigs at Winterland - making San Francisco Slade's stronghold city on the West Coast.
Bob recalled that in the mid 1970's Bill Graham called a private meeting with Chas. Bill was concerned about how Slade were being managed in the US. He asked Chas if he himself could take over the band's management in the States. He had enormous influence in the American market - and felt he could make it work for the band...
However, Chas was having none of it. He wanted to keep control himself - and closed the meeting. This information was not passed to the band.
When told this story, Don said to Bob "Yes - we knew Bill well. We always saw him at our concerts in San Francisco". Bob responded "But you know Bill never used to go to gigs himself".... Don said "He always used to go to ours"..... This was because of the enormous respect that he had for the band...
Don never knew at the time that Bill had offered to manage the band. If only....
Additionally Don recalled a story from the band's Australian Tour in 1974. On the 21 February 1974 Elton John played a gig at the South Melbourne Football Ground. He was in Australia the same time as Slade - and he decided to go to one of the band's gigs (it was probably the Festival Hall in Brisbane on 22 February). Don remembers seeing Elton at the side of the stage really joining in - jumping up and down and dancing around.
After the gig Elton said to Don "I just cannot understand why you haven't made it in the States". Maybe the answer was that Chas wouldn't relinquish control to Bill Graham...
Slade tried from 1972 to crack America. In 1975 they actually relocated to the States (full time) to concentrate on trying to break the American market. It didn't happen. Throughout the whole process Chas Chandler managed the band...
Don has recalled that in around 1991/1992 he was on holiday in New York and he met up with Bob Meyrowitz - who had been Slade's representative in the States.
Bob told Don a story, that he had never heard before, about famous music promoter Bill Graham.
Bill Graham was one of the most powerful promoters in the USA. He actually owned the famous venues Fillmore East (in New York) and Fillmore West (San Francisco) and later went on to own Winterland in San Francisco. He promoted gigs for major bands such as The Doobie Brothers, Santana and Greatful Dead. It was Bill who promoted the highly successful Slade gigs at Winterland - making San Francisco Slade's stronghold city on the West Coast.
Bob recalled that in the mid 1970's Bill Graham called a private meeting with Chas. Bill was concerned about how Slade were being managed in the US. He asked Chas if he himself could take over the band's management in the States. He had enormous influence in the American market - and felt he could make it work for the band...
However, Chas was having none of it. He wanted to keep control himself - and closed the meeting. This information was not passed to the band.
When told this story, Don said to Bob "Yes - we knew Bill well. We always saw him at our concerts in San Francisco". Bob responded "But you know Bill never used to go to gigs himself".... Don said "He always used to go to ours"..... This was because of the enormous respect that he had for the band...
Don never knew at the time that Bill had offered to manage the band. If only....
Additionally Don recalled a story from the band's Australian Tour in 1974. On the 21 February 1974 Elton John played a gig at the South Melbourne Football Ground. He was in Australia the same time as Slade - and he decided to go to one of the band's gigs (it was probably the Festival Hall in Brisbane on 22 February). Don remembers seeing Elton at the side of the stage really joining in - jumping up and down and dancing around.
After the gig Elton said to Don "I just cannot understand why you haven't made it in the States". Maybe the answer was that Chas wouldn't relinquish control to Bill Graham...
Footnotes: Slade 9 played gigs at the Bill's Winterland - 5/6 May 1973, 19/20 October 1973, 26 January 1974, 4 August 1975, 21 January 1976, 3 April 1976 and 10 April 1976.
Slade did eventually crack the USA. In 1984, under Sharon Osborne's management, "Run Runaway" became a Top 20 hit. However, during their big promotional tour, supporting Ozzy Osborne, Jim Lea became ill and the band returned to the UK - never to return to the US again.
Slade did eventually crack the USA. In 1984, under Sharon Osborne's management, "Run Runaway" became a Top 20 hit. However, during their big promotional tour, supporting Ozzy Osborne, Jim Lea became ill and the band returned to the UK - never to return to the US again.
Don trying to reunite with Scout leaders...
Fans will know how important the Boy Scouts were to Don. It was whilst he was a member of the 6th Bilston Scout Group that he became interested, and learned how to play, drums.
On Wednesday 13th August Don met with Glynn Parton (the Scout Leader for the 6th Bilston Scout group) and Darrell Parton (the Scout's District Commissioner) at Bilston Town Hall. Don is trying to trace his old Scout leaders Mick "Skipper" Cripps and Johnny Higgins. He wants to thank them for the influence that they made on his life - and the encouragement they gave him to play drums.
Glynn and Darrell have agreed to trace the old Scout chiefs - and will try to arrange a reunion later in the year. In the meantime Don was presented with a 21st World Scout Jamoree wristband by Glynn - to remind Don of his heritage!
Watch this space for further news on the reunion.
On Wednesday 13th August Don met with Glynn Parton (the Scout Leader for the 6th Bilston Scout group) and Darrell Parton (the Scout's District Commissioner) at Bilston Town Hall. Don is trying to trace his old Scout leaders Mick "Skipper" Cripps and Johnny Higgins. He wants to thank them for the influence that they made on his life - and the encouragement they gave him to play drums.
Glynn and Darrell have agreed to trace the old Scout chiefs - and will try to arrange a reunion later in the year. In the meantime Don was presented with a 21st World Scout Jamoree wristband by Glynn - to remind Don of his heritage!
Watch this space for further news on the reunion.
Wolverhampton shop provides some memories...
When Don was in Wolverhampton recently he paid a visit to the Wolverhampton Books and Collectables shop in Victoria Street.
He found two items that instantly brought back memories to him...
He found two items that instantly brought back memories to him...
First - he found the old shop sign for Band Box. This was the store where Don purchased his first Premier kit from owner George Frame. He bought it on HP for £153 (the cash price would have been £112), having to make weekly repayments. It was Don's Dad who had to sign the agreement - and Don promised to make the payments promtly!
Secondly - Don caught sight of a Disco 45 magazine from 1975... and found one of his band mates staring at him from the front cover.
For Wolverhampton Books and Collectables website - click here.
Secondly - Don caught sight of a Disco 45 magazine from 1975... and found one of his band mates staring at him from the front cover.
For Wolverhampton Books and Collectables website - click here.
"Bilston Remembered" - Don attends the Bilston Craft Gallery & Library Garden Party
Don with Paula
Wednesday 13 August - Don was honoured to be invited to the Bilston Craft Gallery & Library's Garden Party.
Over 500 locals visited the Gallery to take part in the "Bilston Remembered" celebrations. There was poppy making stalls, medal making stalls, storytelling, face painting, craftplay and the Fire Service provided a fire engine for all to climb on board.
Don was welcomed to the Craft Gallery by Paula Kovacs (Gallery curator), Carol Thompson and Carrie Slawinska (Exhibitions Officers). Don met fans and locals, signed books, photos and chatted and then spent time with Cllr Steve Simkins and Town Centre Manager, Cheryl Welsh, discussing his Bilston Memories.
Paula then provided Don and Susan Wilson (National Autistic Society fund raiser) with a private tour around the grounds, buildings and exhibitions. One of the current exhibitions involves Phoenix Glass - a Bilston heat resistant glass manufacturer, who unfortunately folded after competition from Pyrex. Personally, Don was thrilled to visit the Craftplay room at the front of the building. He remembered this room being the building's old library - where he would go nightly after school to do his homework (as it was always to noisy at home with the parent's, brother and sisters being there).
Over 500 locals visited the Gallery to take part in the "Bilston Remembered" celebrations. There was poppy making stalls, medal making stalls, storytelling, face painting, craftplay and the Fire Service provided a fire engine for all to climb on board.
Don was welcomed to the Craft Gallery by Paula Kovacs (Gallery curator), Carol Thompson and Carrie Slawinska (Exhibitions Officers). Don met fans and locals, signed books, photos and chatted and then spent time with Cllr Steve Simkins and Town Centre Manager, Cheryl Welsh, discussing his Bilston Memories.
Paula then provided Don and Susan Wilson (National Autistic Society fund raiser) with a private tour around the grounds, buildings and exhibitions. One of the current exhibitions involves Phoenix Glass - a Bilston heat resistant glass manufacturer, who unfortunately folded after competition from Pyrex. Personally, Don was thrilled to visit the Craftplay room at the front of the building. He remembered this room being the building's old library - where he would go nightly after school to do his homework (as it was always to noisy at home with the parent's, brother and sisters being there).
Don was touched to receive a message from the centre's cleaner, Edna, who remembered Don. She was a good friend of Don's sister Carol - and she once went on holiday with the Powells, as she wasn't going away with her own family.
Thanks to all the staff and volunteers at the Bilston Craft Centre for making the Garden Party event so memorable. Don was keen to be involved in an event that showed Bilston in such a good way.... and it didn't rain!
Thanks to all the staff and volunteers at the Bilston Craft Centre for making the Garden Party event so memorable. Don was keen to be involved in an event that showed Bilston in such a good way.... and it didn't rain!
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Finally, Don was interested to learn that the Bilston Craft Gallery's next main exhibition will feature the Stowlawn Housing Estate in the 'Bilston Happiness Exhibition' (opens on 14 February next year). Our readers will known that Don was born in Stowlawn and was proud to be brought up there. He very much hopes to contribute some memories and images - and take part with the exhibition. Watch this space...
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Don tracks down old school mate in Wolverhampton
Wednesday 13 August - Don tracked down his old classmate from Etheridge School - Mick Brookes.
A few years ago, when Slade were playing at The Robin in Bilston, Don's bandmate John Berry walked in to One Way Music in Wolverhampton and chatted to the guys working there...
It came up in conversation that John was the bass player in Slade. The owner of the shop, Mick Brookes, mentioned to John that he had been in the same class as Don at school and had been good friends with him.
John Berry fed the info back to Don, and on this trip to the UK, Don tracked Mick down.
Mick is a guitarist himself and in the 1960's was in Midland's bands The Cobras and The Californians... He reminisced with Don as to how he became interested in playing guitar after seeing Denny Laine and the Diplomats on stage... Mick had mild chart success with the Californians (a Wolverhampton surf band). So much so, that when the played a gig with Status Quo in 1968, the Quo guys were keen to meet them. Quo were dressed in their frilly shirts at the time, and told Mick how they had just recorded a single called "Pictures of Matchstick Men". Mick poo-poo'd the song - which was about Lowry's paintings.... but was amazed when he heard it on the radio and it became an enormous hit...
If you are passing - call in and see Mick at One Way Music - 122/123 Salop Street, Wolverhampton (he doesn't work Tues or Thursdays)..... Another ex-Slade member has been known to use Mick's shop - Jim Lea.
www.one-way-music.co.uk
Facebook: One Way Music
A few years ago, when Slade were playing at The Robin in Bilston, Don's bandmate John Berry walked in to One Way Music in Wolverhampton and chatted to the guys working there...
It came up in conversation that John was the bass player in Slade. The owner of the shop, Mick Brookes, mentioned to John that he had been in the same class as Don at school and had been good friends with him.
John Berry fed the info back to Don, and on this trip to the UK, Don tracked Mick down.
Mick is a guitarist himself and in the 1960's was in Midland's bands The Cobras and The Californians... He reminisced with Don as to how he became interested in playing guitar after seeing Denny Laine and the Diplomats on stage... Mick had mild chart success with the Californians (a Wolverhampton surf band). So much so, that when the played a gig with Status Quo in 1968, the Quo guys were keen to meet them. Quo were dressed in their frilly shirts at the time, and told Mick how they had just recorded a single called "Pictures of Matchstick Men". Mick poo-poo'd the song - which was about Lowry's paintings.... but was amazed when he heard it on the radio and it became an enormous hit...
If you are passing - call in and see Mick at One Way Music - 122/123 Salop Street, Wolverhampton (he doesn't work Tues or Thursdays)..... Another ex-Slade member has been known to use Mick's shop - Jim Lea.
www.one-way-music.co.uk
Facebook: One Way Music
Don hosts "get together" at the Bluebrick Restaurant
Tuesday 12 August 2014 - Don hosted a get-together of old friends at the Bluebrick Restaurant in Wolverhampton.
With the help of Slade historian, Chris Selby, a group of old friends got together.
Don, Chris, Mick Marston (from the Vendors and the 'N Betweens), Ross Hawkins (schoolmate of Don - and long time friend of Slade), Ross' partner Kitty, Carole Williams (Astra Agency / 'N Betweens fan / friend of the band), Carole's cousin Vicky Pearson ('N Betweens fan and 'N Betweens hair stylist), John Ogden (Wolverhampton Express and Star reporter and supporter of Slade) and Danny Robinson (from rival 60's band Danny Cannon and the Ramrods - who inspired Don to play drums).
Drinks were shared and stories told about past music adventures...
With the help of Slade historian, Chris Selby, a group of old friends got together.
Don, Chris, Mick Marston (from the Vendors and the 'N Betweens), Ross Hawkins (schoolmate of Don - and long time friend of Slade), Ross' partner Kitty, Carole Williams (Astra Agency / 'N Betweens fan / friend of the band), Carole's cousin Vicky Pearson ('N Betweens fan and 'N Betweens hair stylist), John Ogden (Wolverhampton Express and Star reporter and supporter of Slade) and Danny Robinson (from rival 60's band Danny Cannon and the Ramrods - who inspired Don to play drums).
Drinks were shared and stories told about past music adventures...
Don reveals more secrets from the filming of "Flame"...
Don has revealed more unknown facts from the filming of "Flame"...
- The hardest scene for him to film was the jail scene with Alan Lake. It wasn't planned that Alan Lake would scoop his food plate away when the toilet was flushed... So when Alan did it, Don was in fits of laughter. So much so, that it took an entire morning to film that one scene. Even in the final take, used in the movie, Don kept his head down, so that the camera could not see him chuckling whilst filming...
- The flat that was used as "Charlie's" parents home in the film was an actual flat in the Sheffield block shwon in the movie (and not a film set). The film crew persuaded the owners to give up the flat for a week - so that the filming could be done.... As compensation they were provided an all expenses paid week in a London hotel!
- Film writer Andrew Birkin made an un-announced, and incognito, visit to the old 'N Betweens agents' office (the Astra Agency) in Wolverhampton in 1974 - so that he could check out what their early music agents office was like.... He based the scene in the movie on what he had seen in Wolverhampton.
- Don has revealed that the actor who played the market stall owner (and shouted "Stoker - put it away" in the public toilets to Noddy - was the same actor who played the Arab in the car showroom scene with Don and Dave Hill... Yes - even in Flame the producers were saving costs - one actor for the price of two!
- When drawing up the movie, Don asked writer Andrew Birkin what he had in mind for the characters of the other Slade members in the movie. When Andrew told him - Don asked if his role could be a comedy one, playing the fool of the band. On this basis Andrew cast comedy lines for Don - asking him to add any suggestions that he thought would be funny.
- When Don's Mum Dora was leaving a showing of the movie in Wolverhampton, she heard a young boy say: "that drummer - he's thick isn't he?".... Being nothing but proud of her son, Don's Mum clouted him round the head with her handbag! He must have wondered what an earth he'd done wrong...
- Finally Don tells that it was manager Chas Chandler's idea to get the "Flame" movie shown in the US Slade "stronghold" of St Louis in September 1975... He got the movie reels couriered over from the UK for the showing - only to see the US audience watch the movie in total silence... They couldn't understand the Black Country accents, and couldn't understand a word!
Don revisits the first ever home he purchased...
1973
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2014
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Tuesday 12 August - Whilst Don was staying in Wolverhampton for the "Bilston Remembered" celebrations, he happened to be driving down Mill Lane in Tettenhall. He thought that it would be interesting to drop by and see the first property he ever bought - a two bed, top floor flat in Grosvenor Court in Lime Tree Avenue, Tettenhall.
Don explained that in 1973 he was looking to purchase his first ever home. One day he happened to be driving down Mill Lane and stopped in traffic. (He would often drive down Mill Lane to visit Jim Lea at his parent's home - which was nearby at the time). He noticed a "For Sale" sign showing for one of the flats in Lime Tree Avenue... He thought he'd take a look - and ended up buying the flat!
He said the flat was on the top floor - and had a large combined living room / dining room that had a sliding door that could separate the room into two... The flat came with a garage - which Don couldn't use, as his Bentley wouldn't fit in! He therefore had to park his car in the street, at the back of the flats! Don purchased the property for £7,000 - and he joked that it was the same price as one of Jim Lea's cars!
Don would drink at the nearby Mermaid Pub - which was often frequented by Wolverhampton Wanderers footballers - who all seemed to live in the locality.
In 1974, whilst Don was filming "Flame", he and girlfriend Mari looked at flats in London. Don decided it would be more suitable for his career to live there, as he was spending so much time in London... So he purchased a flat in Hampstead (close to the end of the M1 motorway and a quick drive from the West End) - and he sold the Wolverhampton flat.
Don explained that in 1973 he was looking to purchase his first ever home. One day he happened to be driving down Mill Lane and stopped in traffic. (He would often drive down Mill Lane to visit Jim Lea at his parent's home - which was nearby at the time). He noticed a "For Sale" sign showing for one of the flats in Lime Tree Avenue... He thought he'd take a look - and ended up buying the flat!
He said the flat was on the top floor - and had a large combined living room / dining room that had a sliding door that could separate the room into two... The flat came with a garage - which Don couldn't use, as his Bentley wouldn't fit in! He therefore had to park his car in the street, at the back of the flats! Don purchased the property for £7,000 - and he joked that it was the same price as one of Jim Lea's cars!
Don would drink at the nearby Mermaid Pub - which was often frequented by Wolverhampton Wanderers footballers - who all seemed to live in the locality.
In 1974, whilst Don was filming "Flame", he and girlfriend Mari looked at flats in London. Don decided it would be more suitable for his career to live there, as he was spending so much time in London... So he purchased a flat in Hampstead (close to the end of the M1 motorway and a quick drive from the West End) - and he sold the Wolverhampton flat.
"Bilston Remembered" - Warhorse and BBC Radio WM
Tuesday 11 August - Don attended a showing of the "Warhorse" movie at Bilston Town Hall and then went to BBC Radio WM to appear on the Paul Franks radio show.
Photos: Sue Wilson
Photos: Sue Wilson
"Bilston Remembered" - Don attends Cafe Metro...
Sunday 10 August - After a delayed flight, Don arrived in the UK today from yesterday's Slade gig in Landsberg, Germany. Don arrived at Birmingham Airport with Dave Hill - who gave him a lift to his Wolverhampton hotel. After a quick wash and brush up, Don made his way to Cafe Metro in Bilston - to support the Bilston Beer Festival as part of the "Bilston Remembered" celebrations....
Photos: Sue Wilson
Photos: Sue Wilson
Slade in Ystad, Sweden - 1 August 2014
Thanks to Per Jahnke for allowing us to share his photos of the recent Slade gig in Ystad, Sweden.
Behind the lyrics... "Wonderin' Y"
The Slade track "Wonderin' Y" was the B Side to the "Take Me Bak 'Ome" single that hit No1 in the UK in June 1972.
The song has been long regarded as one of the best Slade B sides, if not THE best B side. We thought we would ask Don a bit about the song, which he co-wrote.
"I actually wrote the, lyrics at my Mom and Dad's house (I was still living there at the time)...
Yes, I did the lyrics, and Jim did the melody. With this particular song, I thought of the melody for the sequence “Here I am, in the same old clothes, looking back on my life”.
The idea came from a TV show I had just watched about the life of a tramp, living on the streets of London. It sort of changed it to a bit of a ‘love’ song as it progressed....
I seem to remember having a good time recording it. I especially enjoyed listening to Nod, Jim and Dave singing harmonies to Nod’s guide vocal track.
I don’t think there was a plan for where it would be used. It just worked out about it being a ‘B’ side......
I really can’t remember what Chas (our manager) thought of it. However, he must have been pretty favourable, otherwise it wouldn’t have been used"....
The song has been long regarded as one of the best Slade B sides, if not THE best B side. We thought we would ask Don a bit about the song, which he co-wrote.
"I actually wrote the, lyrics at my Mom and Dad's house (I was still living there at the time)...
Yes, I did the lyrics, and Jim did the melody. With this particular song, I thought of the melody for the sequence “Here I am, in the same old clothes, looking back on my life”.
The idea came from a TV show I had just watched about the life of a tramp, living on the streets of London. It sort of changed it to a bit of a ‘love’ song as it progressed....
I seem to remember having a good time recording it. I especially enjoyed listening to Nod, Jim and Dave singing harmonies to Nod’s guide vocal track.
I don’t think there was a plan for where it would be used. It just worked out about it being a ‘B’ side......
I really can’t remember what Chas (our manager) thought of it. However, he must have been pretty favourable, otherwise it wouldn’t have been used"....
"WONDERIN' Y" - LYRICS BY DON POWELL
Here I am, in the same old clothes, looking back on my life
‘Cos I'm left alone. Left out here without a home
Take no chance, read between the lines, don't accept a way
When she always cries, just read between the lies
I tried to love you, now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
It's hard to see and to understand just a-what it's like. To be pushed around
Kicking stones along the ground. I don't think it will ever change.
Can I find a way to the fun again and have another chance to spend my life with you
And now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
I tried to love you, now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
Here I am, in the same old clothes, looking back on my life
‘Cos I'm left alone. Left out here without a home
Take no chance, read between the lines, don't accept a way
When she always cries, just read between the lies
I tried to love you, now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
It's hard to see and to understand just a-what it's like. To be pushed around
Kicking stones along the ground. I don't think it will ever change.
Can I find a way to the fun again and have another chance to spend my life with you
And now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
I tried to love you, now I'm here, taking things as I find them
Now I'm here, wasting time, thinking of me. Looking back on my life
Wondering why ...
Don supports "Bilston Remembered"...
Don will fly into England in August to support the 'Bilston Remembered' Festival in his home town in the West Midlands...
To see the "Bilston Remembered" programme of events click here.
The events that have been lined up for Don to attend are:
Sunday 10 August - The Bilston Beer Festival - the event starts at 12 noon at Cafe Metro, Church Street, Bilston, WV14 0AH (opposite Bilston Town Hall). **** DON HOPING TO ATTEND AROUND 7PM - FLIGHTS ALLOWING ***
Monday 11 August - Don will be attending a showing of the "Warhorse" movie at the Bilston Town Hall, Church Street, Bilston, WV14 0AT (1pm) - the showing has been arranged by Friends of Bilston Town Hall. Click here for details.
Wednesday 13 August - Don will be attending the Garden Party / Summer Fete at Bilston Craft Gallery, Mount Pleasant, Bilston, WV14 7LU (10am-3pm) Click here for website.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO COME ALONG, MEET DON AND SUPPORT THE EVENTS. IF YOU WANT DON TO SIGN COPIES OF HIS BOOK OR MEMORABILIA - PLEASE BRING IT ALONG. PHOTOS WITH DON ARE NO PROBLEM!
NB Don actually arrives in the UK on Sunday 10 August - so the time of him attending at Bilston Beer Festival will depend on his flight not being delayed!
To see the "Bilston Remembered" programme of events click here.
The events that have been lined up for Don to attend are:
Sunday 10 August - The Bilston Beer Festival - the event starts at 12 noon at Cafe Metro, Church Street, Bilston, WV14 0AH (opposite Bilston Town Hall). **** DON HOPING TO ATTEND AROUND 7PM - FLIGHTS ALLOWING ***
Monday 11 August - Don will be attending a showing of the "Warhorse" movie at the Bilston Town Hall, Church Street, Bilston, WV14 0AT (1pm) - the showing has been arranged by Friends of Bilston Town Hall. Click here for details.
Wednesday 13 August - Don will be attending the Garden Party / Summer Fete at Bilston Craft Gallery, Mount Pleasant, Bilston, WV14 7LU (10am-3pm) Click here for website.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO COME ALONG, MEET DON AND SUPPORT THE EVENTS. IF YOU WANT DON TO SIGN COPIES OF HIS BOOK OR MEMORABILIA - PLEASE BRING IT ALONG. PHOTOS WITH DON ARE NO PROBLEM!
NB Don actually arrives in the UK on Sunday 10 August - so the time of him attending at Bilston Beer Festival will depend on his flight not being delayed!
Marc Bolan "tree" killed...
Don with Alan Parker
The late Marc Bolan was the great rival to Slade in the 1970's and Don was honoured to visit his memorial site in Barnes last month.
It is sad to hear that subsequent to Don's visit that vandals carved into the heart of the tree (where Marc died) and administered poison. The callous individuals later returned and used power tools to drive long screws into the tree to make sure that it died...
It is a shame how some individuals show no respect for memorials of the deceased.
It is sad to hear that subsequent to Don's visit that vandals carved into the heart of the tree (where Marc died) and administered poison. The callous individuals later returned and used power tools to drive long screws into the tree to make sure that it died...
It is a shame how some individuals show no respect for memorials of the deceased.
Fans visit Hawick...
We received an email from Rudolf from Germany who recently visited Hawick... It seems that the Town Hall is now one of the "Slade sights" to see in Scotland...
Hi Don,
I visited Hawick Town Hall on this year's holiday to Scotland. Have a look at the photos! I couldn't manage it the same weekend when Don was there. I had my holidays in June this year. It was two weeks earlier than Don's visit that I started a round trip through Scotland with my wife. And what a lucky break, I booked the first hotel in January this year and it was only 5 miles away from Hawick. So the visit of Hawick Town Hall was a must when I read it on your website.
If you like you can publish the photos on your website or/and your Facebook site.
Will see Slade soon in August in Greven and Stadtallendorf here in Germany.
All the best, keep on rockin'
Rudolf
Hi Don,
I visited Hawick Town Hall on this year's holiday to Scotland. Have a look at the photos! I couldn't manage it the same weekend when Don was there. I had my holidays in June this year. It was two weeks earlier than Don's visit that I started a round trip through Scotland with my wife. And what a lucky break, I booked the first hotel in January this year and it was only 5 miles away from Hawick. So the visit of Hawick Town Hall was a must when I read it on your website.
If you like you can publish the photos on your website or/and your Facebook site.
Will see Slade soon in August in Greven and Stadtallendorf here in Germany.
All the best, keep on rockin'
Rudolf
Don's Scottish trip diary
(All photos accompanying Don's Diary are thanks to Diane E. Henderson - who also interviewed Don - see below. Click here to read Diane's website).
Thursday 3rd July 2014
I was awake at 05:30, cleaned up and packed. I loaded the car to drive to Aarhus Airport (further than Billund).
Nice easy flight to Stansted.
I had quite a few hours to wait for my flight to Edinburgh. I relaxed and drank copious amounts of tea.
No problems checking in. While I was going through security, I had a nice chat to one of the security guards (a big Slade fan). He told me he bought "SLAYED" album from the time and would I sign it if he brought it along?
Nice flight to Edinburgh. Sue Wilson met me and we drove about an hour to their house, stopping to say hello to her ‘farmer’ husband Andy on the way.......... I had a go on his tractor with him, ‘baling’ hay (my new profession)?
Had dinner with, Sue, Andy, son Andrew, daughter Ami. Watched a programme on TV about The Beatles,
I was in bed by 22:15pm.
Friday 4th July 2014
Anniversary of my car accident in 1973.....
I was woken by my alarm at 06:30am. I cleaned up and went for breakfast with everyone.
We drove to Hawick Town Hall....(we played there 50 years ago as the original ‘N’Betweens). I did photos and interviews there with local reporters.
From there we went to a school helping with autistic children. I had a great time and jammed with the school band.
From there we went to Coopers Bar so I could ‘jam’ with Still Whisky on their lunchtime session. We played:
‘Sharp Dressed Man’
‘Smoke On The Water’
‘Thrill Is Gone’
‘Route 66’
‘Another Brick In The Wall’
‘Born To Be Wild’
‘Alright Now’
‘Spirit In The Sky’
‘Johnny Be Good’
‘Cum On Feel The Noize’
I was awake at 05:30, cleaned up and packed. I loaded the car to drive to Aarhus Airport (further than Billund).
Nice easy flight to Stansted.
I had quite a few hours to wait for my flight to Edinburgh. I relaxed and drank copious amounts of tea.
No problems checking in. While I was going through security, I had a nice chat to one of the security guards (a big Slade fan). He told me he bought "SLAYED" album from the time and would I sign it if he brought it along?
Nice flight to Edinburgh. Sue Wilson met me and we drove about an hour to their house, stopping to say hello to her ‘farmer’ husband Andy on the way.......... I had a go on his tractor with him, ‘baling’ hay (my new profession)?
Had dinner with, Sue, Andy, son Andrew, daughter Ami. Watched a programme on TV about The Beatles,
I was in bed by 22:15pm.
Friday 4th July 2014
Anniversary of my car accident in 1973.....
I was woken by my alarm at 06:30am. I cleaned up and went for breakfast with everyone.
We drove to Hawick Town Hall....(we played there 50 years ago as the original ‘N’Betweens). I did photos and interviews there with local reporters.
From there we went to a school helping with autistic children. I had a great time and jammed with the school band.
From there we went to Coopers Bar so I could ‘jam’ with Still Whisky on their lunchtime session. We played:
‘Sharp Dressed Man’
‘Smoke On The Water’
‘Thrill Is Gone’
‘Route 66’
‘Another Brick In The Wall’
‘Born To Be Wild’
‘Alright Now’
‘Spirit In The Sky’
‘Johnny Be Good’
‘Cum On Feel The Noize’
From there we made our way to the Kelso BMF 'Bike-Fest’. I had a fantastic day, raising money for the NAS and ‘jamming’ with more bands. With Ian James and the Sound we played 'Sweet Home Alabama'. With the Gypsies I played 'Paranoid' and 'Alright Now' (Rob from the Gypsies was a founding member of Prefab Sprout).
Got to the hotel and was in bed by 11:45pm.
Saturday 5th July 2014
I woke at 07:30am. I cleaned up and went for breakfast. Sue joined me.....
I went across to the ‘Bike-Fest’ with her. Had another great day raising money.
Went back to the hotel to clean up and go to eat. ‘Jammed’ most of the night with bands playing at the ‘Bike-Fest’. In the afternoon I was with the Gypsies again - we played 'Born To Be Wild' and '20th Century Boy'. In the evening I played with 5th Element - playing 'I Love Rock n Roll'. Also, with a band called Gadji I played 'Peter Gunn' and another song. I was in bed 23:00pm.
Got to the hotel and was in bed by 11:45pm.
Saturday 5th July 2014
I woke at 07:30am. I cleaned up and went for breakfast. Sue joined me.....
I went across to the ‘Bike-Fest’ with her. Had another great day raising money.
Went back to the hotel to clean up and go to eat. ‘Jammed’ most of the night with bands playing at the ‘Bike-Fest’. In the afternoon I was with the Gypsies again - we played 'Born To Be Wild' and '20th Century Boy'. In the evening I played with 5th Element - playing 'I Love Rock n Roll'. Also, with a band called Gadji I played 'Peter Gunn' and another song. I was in bed 23:00pm.
Sunday 6 July 2014
I was awake at 08:30am. Cleaned up and packed. I called Sue to go for breakfast. Had another great day raising money We sold a signed poster from a show we did with The Rubettes and Alvin Stardust with Mike Read compering, a year ago in Edinburgh for £250:00..... FANTASTIC....
A GREAT END TO A GREAT WEEKEND
Sue drove me to Edinburgh Airport for me to fly to Stansted. I checked in the Radisson Hotel and was in bed by 11:35pm.
Monday 7 July 2014
I was up at 04:00am to get my flight home.............. FANTASTIC WEEKEND guys..............
I was awake at 08:30am. Cleaned up and packed. I called Sue to go for breakfast. Had another great day raising money We sold a signed poster from a show we did with The Rubettes and Alvin Stardust with Mike Read compering, a year ago in Edinburgh for £250:00..... FANTASTIC....
A GREAT END TO A GREAT WEEKEND
Sue drove me to Edinburgh Airport for me to fly to Stansted. I checked in the Radisson Hotel and was in bed by 11:35pm.
Monday 7 July 2014
I was up at 04:00am to get my flight home.............. FANTASTIC WEEKEND guys..............
MORE KELSO PHOTOS.... Thanks to Sue Wilson
Don at Kelso BMF event
Don made his way to the Kelso BMF event on the afternoon of Friday 4 July.
At the event he met a die hard Slade fan called Shaun - who proudly showed Don his Slade tattoo... Don was then interviewed by Steve Jones, the commentator at the event.
(Photos Sue Wilson)
At the event he met a die hard Slade fan called Shaun - who proudly showed Don his Slade tattoo... Don was then interviewed by Steve Jones, the commentator at the event.
(Photos Sue Wilson)
Don visited the Honda Goldwings group and Widows Sons motorcycle group, where he is pictures on the Goldwings and Harley bikes.
Don also played a set with a band called Gadji. The lead singer Rob Turnbull was in a later version of the band Geordie, who supported Slade in the 1970's...
Don pops in on Artbeat in Hawick
Don also visited the Artbeat Group in Hawick. Artbeat are a charity group who promote the welfare of those in the community who are excluded due to having a physical or learning disability.
Students gave Don a warm welcome and wore especially made Don Powell T Shirts - and when Don saw them he said: "Ooh, can I have one?" Don played drums with the music group and spoke to students about his musical background.
(Photos: Sue Wilson)
Students gave Don a warm welcome and wore especially made Don Powell T Shirts - and when Don saw them he said: "Ooh, can I have one?" Don played drums with the music group and spoke to students about his musical background.
(Photos: Sue Wilson)
Don also did a guest slot with a band called Still Whisky in Coopers Bar, Hawick...
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Don revisits Hawick Town Hall...
Following on from an earlier thread on this website... Don took time on Friday 4 July to revisit Hawick Town Hall in Scotland.
Hawick was the first Scottish gig that Don ever played - and the date of the 'N Betweens gig has been confirmed as Saturday 14 August 1965.
Don revisted the Town Hall and posed for some photos on a drum kit that was set up on stage to replicate how his kit would have been all those years ago... (Frank Barker, ex caretaker of the Town Hall loaned his drums).
Also, Don managed to find what he thinks is the location of the small B&B that the band stayed at at the time.... Memories!
(Photos courtesy of Sue Wilson)
Hawick was the first Scottish gig that Don ever played - and the date of the 'N Betweens gig has been confirmed as Saturday 14 August 1965.
Don revisted the Town Hall and posed for some photos on a drum kit that was set up on stage to replicate how his kit would have been all those years ago... (Frank Barker, ex caretaker of the Town Hall loaned his drums).
Also, Don managed to find what he thinks is the location of the small B&B that the band stayed at at the time.... Memories!
(Photos courtesy of Sue Wilson)
Don arrives in Scotland
Thursday 3rd July 2014 - Don arrived in Scotland today. He did some hay baling ahead of visiting Hawick on Friday and appearing at the BMF Kelso event all weekend..
UK December Slade date added...
Slade have added a UK December date.... Sunday 14th December at the Ballroom at Mill Rythe, on Hayling Island, Hants.
Tickets are available now. Click here for details.
Tickets are available now. Click here for details.
50,000 website hits!
www.donpowellofficial.com was launched in December 2012. Don is really pleased that on 1 July 2014, and in just over 18 months, his website has had over 50,000 hits!
Thank you for your support!
Thank you for your support!
Congratulations to Noddy
Photo: Thanks Chris Hill
Don would like to express his congratulations to his old band mate and friend, Noddy Holder, on his achievement of being presented the Freedom on Walsall on Tuesday 24 June.
Well done and well deserved Nod!
Well done and well deserved Nod!
Another anniversary!
And it's another anniversary.....
Chris Selby has reminded us that today (26 June) is the 48th anniversary of the first official 'N Betweens gig as a four piece band - at Silver Blade's Ice Rink in Pershore Street, Birmingham.
Chris Selby has reminded us that today (26 June) is the 48th anniversary of the first official 'N Betweens gig as a four piece band - at Silver Blade's Ice Rink in Pershore Street, Birmingham.
Rare American "Cum On Feel The Noize" TV performance emerges...
Thanks to AJ Smith who has provided a You Tube link to footage of Slade appearing on the Midnight Special TV show from Los Angeles. They performed "Cum On Feel The Noize" on 22 March 1973. Although the studio version is on playback, the band perform live vocal over the top.
It's a stomping performance - to an "unmoved" American audience! If you need to find out any facts, figures or info regarding Slade's discography, check out AJ's excellent Slade Cove website. To see it, click here.
It's a stomping performance - to an "unmoved" American audience! If you need to find out any facts, figures or info regarding Slade's discography, check out AJ's excellent Slade Cove website. To see it, click here.
Kelso publicity interview
Don was this week interviewed by the Southern Reporter newspaper - in advance of his forthcoming visit to Hawick and BMF Kelso on the weekend of 4-6 July 2014.
A day out in Barnes...
Don flew in to the UK on Tuesday 17 June to attend the six-monthly "Rock Stars' Lunch" at La Strada restaurant in Barnes, SW London.
On the way to the lunch, Don met up with old friend Alan G Parker (film director/writer - and author of the Slade book "Cum On Feel The Noize - The Story of Slade"). They had a catch-up over coffee (well, tea in Don's case) in the cafe that was the Olympic Studios. The Olympic Studios were the studios where Slade recorded all their albums up to "Slade In Flame".
Don and Alan then moved on to visit the Marc Bolan Memorial in Queen's Ride / Gipsy Lane, Barnes. Both were keen to visit here as they never seen the site where Marc died on 16 September 1977. Don laid some flowers at Marc's plaque. Alan was astonished that when you look at the ground around the site, you notice that glitter and foil stars are embedded in the soil...
Next was the "Rock Stars' Lunch" at La Strada in Barnes. The meal was set up so that old clients' of Keith Altham (Slade's PR manager) could keep in touch. The lunch was arranged (as usual) by author John Pidgeon (of "Flame" book fame). Don attended the meal by himself - before flying back to Denmark the same day.
Please see some photos of the day below - but here is Don's Diary of the Barnes trip..
On the way to the lunch, Don met up with old friend Alan G Parker (film director/writer - and author of the Slade book "Cum On Feel The Noize - The Story of Slade"). They had a catch-up over coffee (well, tea in Don's case) in the cafe that was the Olympic Studios. The Olympic Studios were the studios where Slade recorded all their albums up to "Slade In Flame".
Don and Alan then moved on to visit the Marc Bolan Memorial in Queen's Ride / Gipsy Lane, Barnes. Both were keen to visit here as they never seen the site where Marc died on 16 September 1977. Don laid some flowers at Marc's plaque. Alan was astonished that when you look at the ground around the site, you notice that glitter and foil stars are embedded in the soil...
Next was the "Rock Stars' Lunch" at La Strada in Barnes. The meal was set up so that old clients' of Keith Altham (Slade's PR manager) could keep in touch. The lunch was arranged (as usual) by author John Pidgeon (of "Flame" book fame). Don attended the meal by himself - before flying back to Denmark the same day.
Please see some photos of the day below - but here is Don's Diary of the Barnes trip..
Monday 16th June 2014
I went to bed 18:00pm because the long day I’ll have tomorrow...
Tuesday 17th June 2014
I was awake at midnight....... Cleaned up and relaxed before packing the car and driving to Billund Airport.
I didn’t have luggage and I’d already checked in ‘on-line’ and got my boarding card.... All I had to do was wait for the lounge to open at 04:45am.
Had some breakfast there (didn’t need to make sandwiches). Went to board my flight and I text Dave Kemp to let him know.
Nice weather for my ‘smooth’ flight to Stansted. Dave met me there and we drove to Barnes to meet film-director, Alan Parker. On the way we pass The Grantly Hotel in Shepherd's Bush. It brings back memories - Slade stayed there when we recorded "Play It Loud" at Olympic.... We all shared one room which cost £1 each, including breakfast (no VAT), and we used to go to an Irish cafe a few doors away where you would get loads of food for little money... Then later we pass the Hilton in Kensington, where I remember we stayed when recording "Flame" at Olympic (we'd moved up in the world).
We met Alan and did photo-shoot at the old Olympic Studios where all of Slade's early hits were recorded.... There is a lot of history there..... The Rolling Stones, The Who and the Beatles did record there for a short time.
From there we went to Marc Bolan’s memorial place. It is situated where he died in a car crash on 16th September 1977, his girlfriend Gloria Jones survived.... I only ever really met Marc on the times we both recorded Top of The Pops together. He was always friendly and nice. He made it big a bit before us, and then we came along to rival his success, and then became more popular. I remember at this time him saying to us "It's over to you now...." Also, there was the famous time when me and him had similar looking cars (mine a White Bentley and he had a White Rolls). After one TOTPs all of Slade jumped into my car and locked the doors to get away from girl fans... Before realising it was actually Marc's car and he couldn't get in!
There is a great memorial stone placed there to Marc courtesy of the Performing Rights Society.
Dave then dropped me at the restaurant for our ‘Rock’n’Roll Masons’ lunch..... H turned up for this one.
‘Tich’ from Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich was there. Also, Bruce Welch (Shadows), Clem Cattini (Session drummer, and original drummer with The Tornadoes, who played on 55 No 1’s as a session drummer), Chris Charlesworth, Bob Young (Quo's old tour manager and co writer of all their hits. PLUS MANY MORE PEOPLE.
I went to bed 18:00pm because the long day I’ll have tomorrow...
Tuesday 17th June 2014
I was awake at midnight....... Cleaned up and relaxed before packing the car and driving to Billund Airport.
I didn’t have luggage and I’d already checked in ‘on-line’ and got my boarding card.... All I had to do was wait for the lounge to open at 04:45am.
Had some breakfast there (didn’t need to make sandwiches). Went to board my flight and I text Dave Kemp to let him know.
Nice weather for my ‘smooth’ flight to Stansted. Dave met me there and we drove to Barnes to meet film-director, Alan Parker. On the way we pass The Grantly Hotel in Shepherd's Bush. It brings back memories - Slade stayed there when we recorded "Play It Loud" at Olympic.... We all shared one room which cost £1 each, including breakfast (no VAT), and we used to go to an Irish cafe a few doors away where you would get loads of food for little money... Then later we pass the Hilton in Kensington, where I remember we stayed when recording "Flame" at Olympic (we'd moved up in the world).
We met Alan and did photo-shoot at the old Olympic Studios where all of Slade's early hits were recorded.... There is a lot of history there..... The Rolling Stones, The Who and the Beatles did record there for a short time.
From there we went to Marc Bolan’s memorial place. It is situated where he died in a car crash on 16th September 1977, his girlfriend Gloria Jones survived.... I only ever really met Marc on the times we both recorded Top of The Pops together. He was always friendly and nice. He made it big a bit before us, and then we came along to rival his success, and then became more popular. I remember at this time him saying to us "It's over to you now...." Also, there was the famous time when me and him had similar looking cars (mine a White Bentley and he had a White Rolls). After one TOTPs all of Slade jumped into my car and locked the doors to get away from girl fans... Before realising it was actually Marc's car and he couldn't get in!
There is a great memorial stone placed there to Marc courtesy of the Performing Rights Society.
Dave then dropped me at the restaurant for our ‘Rock’n’Roll Masons’ lunch..... H turned up for this one.
‘Tich’ from Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich was there. Also, Bruce Welch (Shadows), Clem Cattini (Session drummer, and original drummer with The Tornadoes, who played on 55 No 1’s as a session drummer), Chris Charlesworth, Bob Young (Quo's old tour manager and co writer of all their hits. PLUS MANY MORE PEOPLE.
(Above photos: thanks to Lesley-Ann Jones)
H and myself left together. We saw Bruce Welch at the bus-stop getting bus times (bet he’s got a bus pass).
I picked up a copy of Robbie William's biography "Feel" to read and made my way to Stansted to fly home.
GREAT DAY.
I picked up a copy of Robbie William's biography "Feel" to read and made my way to Stansted to fly home.
GREAT DAY.
OLYMPIC STUDIOS, LONSDALE ROAD, BARNES
Olympic Studios is now a cinema - with two screen that are used for private film screenings. The frontage of Olympic was exactly as Don remembers. However, Don spoke to the Receptionist who said that unfortunately none of the original recording studio remains. She explained that the owners do intend to install a tribute area dedicated to the past of the Olympic Studios...
Don and Alan were invited to look round the Studio - which they gladly did - after having drinks at the cafe that the owners have built next door to the cinema.
To see Olympic Studios website click here and to check which Slade (and other) albums were recorded at Olympic click here.
Don and Alan were invited to look round the Studio - which they gladly did - after having drinks at the cafe that the owners have built next door to the cinema.
To see Olympic Studios website click here and to check which Slade (and other) albums were recorded at Olympic click here.
MARC BOLAN MEMORIAL, QUEEN'S RIDE, BARNES
To read more about the Marc Bolan Memorial site in Barnes click here.
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'N Betweens - 1960's Hawick date found!
In an earlier thread on this website we mentioned that Don is re-visiting Hawick in Scotland on 4 July.
Don originally visited Hawick in 1965 - it was his first ever gig in Scotland, playing the Hawick Town Hall with the 'N Betweens...
Now with thanks to some brilliant help from Cameron McAuley at Borders Libraries, the actual date of the gig can be traced to Saturday 14 August 1965...
Interesting how the advert for the gigs shows how the band came "from Liverpool"....
Don originally visited Hawick in 1965 - it was his first ever gig in Scotland, playing the Hawick Town Hall with the 'N Betweens...
Now with thanks to some brilliant help from Cameron McAuley at Borders Libraries, the actual date of the gig can be traced to Saturday 14 August 1965...
Interesting how the advert for the gigs shows how the band came "from Liverpool"....
The first time I met Don...
Back to "The First Time I Met Don" emails...
This email is from Paul Goverd from Southville, Bristol:
"I remember meeting Don at the Webbington Hotel and Country Club In Somerset (on the "chicken in the basket" tours) - playing to around 300 people at the gigs.
It was 1980 and me and a couple of fans were waiting outside the club when Don came out and sat in the band car (a gold ford Granada) I think.
So we went over and chatted to him. We talked for about 20 minutes about the band, music and he signed my copy of "Return To Base" and "Six of the Best".
I asked him if he knew Rod Stewart. Being a massive Slade, Rod and Arsenal FC fan, he said he once had been to a party with Rod and the rest of Slade. During the party Brit Ekland didn't stop nagging Rod about his drinking and how unhappy Rod looked. Shortly after that Rod split with Brit.
I remember thinking how surreal this situation was, me leaning casually against the car as Donald George Powell tells me a story about Rod Stewart.
We chatted a bit longer and the rest of the band came out so we said goodbye and asked the rest of the band to sign our records.
Jim commented about me being the only person to have bought a copy of "Return to Base" and everyone laughed.
The band all got into the car and we waved them off. Little did we know that they were on the verge of splitting and that The Gods of Rock were lining up a Reading comeback and our HEROS would be back to were the belong.
Thanks for all the great years Don"
Paul Goverd
This email is from Paul Goverd from Southville, Bristol:
"I remember meeting Don at the Webbington Hotel and Country Club In Somerset (on the "chicken in the basket" tours) - playing to around 300 people at the gigs.
It was 1980 and me and a couple of fans were waiting outside the club when Don came out and sat in the band car (a gold ford Granada) I think.
So we went over and chatted to him. We talked for about 20 minutes about the band, music and he signed my copy of "Return To Base" and "Six of the Best".
I asked him if he knew Rod Stewart. Being a massive Slade, Rod and Arsenal FC fan, he said he once had been to a party with Rod and the rest of Slade. During the party Brit Ekland didn't stop nagging Rod about his drinking and how unhappy Rod looked. Shortly after that Rod split with Brit.
I remember thinking how surreal this situation was, me leaning casually against the car as Donald George Powell tells me a story about Rod Stewart.
We chatted a bit longer and the rest of the band came out so we said goodbye and asked the rest of the band to sign our records.
Jim commented about me being the only person to have bought a copy of "Return to Base" and everyone laughed.
The band all got into the car and we waved them off. Little did we know that they were on the verge of splitting and that The Gods of Rock were lining up a Reading comeback and our HEROS would be back to were the belong.
Thanks for all the great years Don"
Paul Goverd
What was I doing when I heard President Kennedy had been shot?
Friday 22 November 1963. Don remembers when he heard that President Kennedy had been assassinated... Don was walking into 'N Between's singer Johnny Howell's house and Johnny's father greeted Don with the words "Some bastard has shot President Kennedy".
Thanks to research carried out by Slade Historian Chris Selby, Don has now found out what he was doing later that day.... Chris has ascertained that Don was doing a gig at Etheridge School Youth Club - that was his school's youth club.
It had been bugging Don for years to know the full story of what he was doing that day...
Ever since Kennedy was murdered Don has always followed the story through TV documentaries, films and books....
Thanks to research carried out by Slade Historian Chris Selby, Don has now found out what he was doing later that day.... Chris has ascertained that Don was doing a gig at Etheridge School Youth Club - that was his school's youth club.
It had been bugging Don for years to know the full story of what he was doing that day...
Ever since Kennedy was murdered Don has always followed the story through TV documentaries, films and books....
Don's discarded script for "Flame" movie emerges
Don's discarded script for the "Flame" movie from 1974 has emerged.
A copy of the script is featured on the "Slade In Flame" page on this website. To see it click here.
A copy of the script is featured on the "Slade In Flame" page on this website. To see it click here.
Why Slade recorded "Get Down and Get With It"
Slade & Crusoe advert - thanks Chris Selby
Don reminded webmaster the other day how Slade came to use "Get Down and Get With It" in their set, and record the song themselves to make it their breakthrough hit...
The story is mentioned in Don's biography... But it relates to Carole Williams (who worked as a secretary at the Astra Agency - Slade's agents).
Slade would often do gigs with her husband, a DJ who would go under the name of Crusoe. He would do a DJ set around Slade's performance. The song that he used to finish with was Little Richard's "Get Down and Get With It". Slade saw how the audience would go wild when the track was played, and that made them decide to use it.
Carole remembers taping the disc onto cassette and Jim Lea's calling round her house to collect it, so the band could learn how to play it.
The rest is history - and the number has remained in Slade's live set ever since...
The story is mentioned in Don's biography... But it relates to Carole Williams (who worked as a secretary at the Astra Agency - Slade's agents).
Slade would often do gigs with her husband, a DJ who would go under the name of Crusoe. He would do a DJ set around Slade's performance. The song that he used to finish with was Little Richard's "Get Down and Get With It". Slade saw how the audience would go wild when the track was played, and that made them decide to use it.
Carole remembers taping the disc onto cassette and Jim Lea's calling round her house to collect it, so the band could learn how to play it.
The rest is history - and the number has remained in Slade's live set ever since...
Hawick visit and BMF Kelso event in Scotland
Don is visiting Hawick in Scotland on Friday 4th July.
Hawick Town Hall is the first place where the 'N Betweens (including Don) played their first ever Scottish gig. The exact date is being researched but Chris Selby has spoken to band member Mick Marson (the band's 2nd guitarist before Noddy Holder) and he reckons it was during 1965. With the 50th anniversary of Don's first ever Scottish performance approaching, Don will revisit the venue to have photos taken.
After the Town Hall visit Don will head to Airbeat in Hawick.
Airbeat Studios is a registered charity founded in 2004 with the aim of promoting the welfare of those in the community who are socially excluded by reason of physical or learning disability, mental illness, age, poverty or other condition of need. This includes music and art groups and they also make some of their own instruments.
Local band Still Whisky have kindly agreed to set up early in Cooper's Bar in Hawick and Don will do a little guest slot with them between 4-5pm, before heading off to the BMF event at Springwood Park in Kelso.
Over the weekend Don will be in attendance at the BMF event, where he will be happy to sign autographs and have photos taken (for a small donation to NAS)! He will also be jammin' with the bands, on both Friday and Saturday evenings, at he did at the recent Peterborough event.
Friday is only open to campers attending the show for the weekend, but there is a new ticket format this year, as there was at Peterborough, where you can buy a day ticket for entry to the event on Saturday, which also allows access to the band venue at night.
Hawick Town Hall is the first place where the 'N Betweens (including Don) played their first ever Scottish gig. The exact date is being researched but Chris Selby has spoken to band member Mick Marson (the band's 2nd guitarist before Noddy Holder) and he reckons it was during 1965. With the 50th anniversary of Don's first ever Scottish performance approaching, Don will revisit the venue to have photos taken.
After the Town Hall visit Don will head to Airbeat in Hawick.
Airbeat Studios is a registered charity founded in 2004 with the aim of promoting the welfare of those in the community who are socially excluded by reason of physical or learning disability, mental illness, age, poverty or other condition of need. This includes music and art groups and they also make some of their own instruments.
Local band Still Whisky have kindly agreed to set up early in Cooper's Bar in Hawick and Don will do a little guest slot with them between 4-5pm, before heading off to the BMF event at Springwood Park in Kelso.
Over the weekend Don will be in attendance at the BMF event, where he will be happy to sign autographs and have photos taken (for a small donation to NAS)! He will also be jammin' with the bands, on both Friday and Saturday evenings, at he did at the recent Peterborough event.
Friday is only open to campers attending the show for the weekend, but there is a new ticket format this year, as there was at Peterborough, where you can buy a day ticket for entry to the event on Saturday, which also allows access to the band venue at night.
Bilston Remembered 4 - 16 August
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Tuesday 3 June 2014 - Don travelled to Wolverhampton to meet with Councillors Val Gibson and Stephen Simkins at the Wolverhampton Civic Centre.
Don has agreed to support the "Bilston Remembered" celebrations which will run between 4-16 August. |
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Discussions are at an early stage - but Don is hopeful to take part with a meeting with Scouts at his old Bilston Unit and join a reunion of pupils at his old school (Etheridge Secondary Modern School). More details to follow soon.
To view and 'like' the Bilston Remembered Facebook Page click here.
To view and 'like' the Bilston Remembered Facebook Page click here.
