As has been said, he was a close friend of devout jazz fan Randolph Heads and as Blaydon got established in the 1980s, Randy was instrumental in getting John to the jazz club. He then came many times and it was always a privilege and delight. Sometimes he stayed over with Randy, sometimes with Marion and myself.
As
I got to know him I realised he was not just a great player but an
exceptionally intelligent, knowledgeable person and a perceptive observer of
people and of life. He was good to be with, great company. His anecdotes were
legendary as was his hilarious way with jokes and his beloved odes. I’m sure he
could have had a successful career as a stand up comedian.
When Randolph
suddenly passed away in 1999, without hesitation John and Roy Williams
travelled north to Blaydon to play for no fee at a fundraiser in his memory.
Such was the mutual love and respect.
His
music career has been well documented. Truly one of the greats of UK jazz and
his long stints with Alex Welsh and Humph were testimony to this.
Happy
memories – Roly.
The above photos were taken at Blaydon Jazz Club.
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