John Al

Sorry, not going to get drawn into this. As you say: "gangsters, murderers and political activists" and therefore well documented. A quick google search will start off your reseach, for a clearer picture of the overall civil rights movement which also links to the development of black music I can recommend the book "A Change is Gonna Come. Music, Race & The Soul of America " by Craig Werner. There are of course many other writings on this period of American history. It is a complex and emotive subject and, as I said, the cause itself (although not the means) was justified. Never, in my opinion, was the somewhat over used cliche "One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter" more appropriate. It is this distinction which unfortunately became too blurred to lend historical credibility. John.

Oh yes - top tune. Anyone mentioned: Fear - Scotty Williams House of Broken Hearts - Hal Hardy John

Shane, I have been playing outside for 26 hours now. I am tired, hungry and dirty. Is it OK to come in now? John.

Yes you are right, there was a craze for a while of wearing one black glove, didn't last long. Almost certainly a fashion thing with it's roots in the black power gesture. If political, it was certainly mis-guided. Remember the Black Panthers, however just their cause, were actually terrorists. As for politics in Northern Soul, it has unfortunately always been there and is of the personal type. Just check out what's going on now under the Ethics thread. John.

You know what Pete - so did I! Then I used to circulate this to my brother & sister who would also give points and I'd work out chart positions from that. I'm all dewey eyed now............... Now what was this thread about again...........

Ramble away Pete.......good stuff. I remember "Grocer Jack" but for me it was "McArthur Park", you remember? The song about "someone's left a cake out in the rain". Takes me right back too. I also remember hearing "I'll Do Anything" on, of course, the Tony Blackburn show! John.

He's the United Nations bloke innit Dave?

Of course Gavin. I'll pm you his email too. John.

Fully agree, but for me it was grannie. ....and this breaks me up. Will_Downing___Grandma_s_Hands.mp3

He is still about and still has a screw loose I'm told! Spoke to Sean a few days ago. I think we must know each other? John.

Jennifer Holiday - I'm Telling You I'm Not Going The O'Jays - If I Should Love Again Luther Ingram - If Lovin' You Is Wrong (Millie Jackson version also) Clyde McPhatter - One More Chance and thankyou to Steve for reminding me: Dorothy Moore - Misty Blue

Yup, me and a host of us from Swindon. Basingstoke crew were Sean, Gareth, Screw-Loose, Wolfman, Lee, Andy H etc etc plus Alan and Shane from Newbury. Great nights sadly missed! John.

Thanks Karen, kept me busy for a while and relived the memories......... Much maligned is Martha. Those two nights confirmed her massive stature in my eyes. John.

I agree, better with time. Don't think I'd try too hard to buy a copy but good nonetheless. Goes well with your avatar too! John.

Hi, sorry to hear you have to sell - it's they only way most of us would. If you use a dealer they will take a cut. However the price will be inflated if it goes to auction so this may cover it. If you put it on Ebay, you may lose out unless you put a reserve price on it, or it may go higher if you get lucky. That's the straight answer with no waffle or bull. What would I do? I'd seek a valuation, perhaps through this site and then ask for offers. If I didn't get anything satisfactory, I'd put it to auction, probably on Ebay with the best or an average of the offers as reserve price. Hope this helps, good luck and sorry again, John.

Last three that are worth scanning. Sorry they are a bit fuzzy. John.

The band gave her the towel and the crowd did the rest. Her face says it all. John.

You weren't the only one mate! Enclosed, again from Wigan. Sadly not me though.......

Found 'em dusty and faded I'm afraid. But here she is on stage. From what I remember, she was talking about life, etc at this point and then broke down. More on the way......

Heading for the cupboard right now...............

Don't agree with you on Gladys Knight mate, but do agree on Martha. Stunning vocals that, as you say, were always in control. Even on the pop stuff with the Vandellas there was always enough soul to make me feel that I held a secret that others who knew the songs (ie everyone) couldn't share in. Saw her live twice at Wigan, very polished and overawed by the experience. The first time she sang a few bars of "One Way Out" acapella - the band were just totally lost. The second time she had just released an album and had been going through relationship problems. This plus the reception she got moved her to tears. Audience all seemed to go "aaahhh" at the same time and then clapped and cheered until she came right back to life. Truly memorable nights for me.....think I have some photos somewhere. And to think - she could have remained a secretary!! John.

Bet they are all boots! Should think the all nighter's are a bit dull too..........

Good news for Buster - thanks for putting me straight! I have it too so thanks again

Would I be spoiling the whole of this good thread if I admit that I always liked the intro to "Black Power"??