Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham

Subject: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Jim McLean
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 06:51 AM

I have just heard that Ian Campbell, the Scottish folk singer who lived in Birmingham, passed away at 10am this morning. He'll be sadly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Vic Smith
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 07:02 AM

Sad News! A lot of us learned a great deal from the Ian Campbell Folk Group all those years ago.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: threelegsoman
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 07:20 AM

Indeed, I was a big fan of the group and sing a number of the songs they introduced to me when I bought their LPs. RIP Ian

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 07:34 AM

Curiously I'm just listening to Jon Rennard singing Ian's great anti war song ' The Old Mans Tale '

He will be greatly missed, a fine singer and songwriter and an inspiration to many, RIP Ian.

Dave H

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 07:45 AM

An inspirational figure from the early days.I always had a lot of respect for him and the group. Thank you Ian for your gifts to the folk scene. We will miss you. Rest in Peace. Roy Harris.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Johnny J
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:20 AM

Sad news.

Ian's significance within the early days of the folk revival were immense and should never be forgotten.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Tunesmith
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:27 AM

I saw Ian's group lots of times in the 60s, and I thought they were great!
Of course Ian was featured on the BBC Folk Awards, and seemed like a really interesting character!

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: wassail
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:37 AM

Awful news. A great man who inspired so many young singers over the years. Condolences to the family.
                                              Mike.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Paul Davenport
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:43 AM

Yet another source of folk inspiration for a (once) 17 year old. I agree, sad day.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: MikeL2
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:56 AM

Hi

Top man!! Great singer and writer of songs and for me a good communicator and entertainer.

Will be sadly missed.

Condolences to Ian's family and friends.

Sadly

MikeL2

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Steve Gardham
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 09:20 AM

Yes, sadly missed. One of the greats from the 60s. So glad he could make his final statement on the Beeb before he went.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 09:40 AM

Leaves a hole in all our lives. He was a great influence on many, and I still sing songs learned from his and Lorna's singing.

RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Big Al Whittle
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 09:53 AM

Very very sad.

I guess at some point he just gave up on the folkscene. and who could blame him?

One lot was trying to empty the folk clubs of pop music. The other lot were getting into bed with showbiz. His own kids were reggae singers, and doing bloody well at it.

Someone on facebook was saying that there was never a golden age of the English folk club. ten minutes talking to Ian would have convinced you other wise. here was some one who had sung on the original radio ballads. writen a song on Paul Simon's first album. Gave Joni Mitchell one her first gigs in England. in Jon Dunkerly and Dave Swarbrick harnessed two of the best musical talents England ever saw.

And such idealism! Someone who gave nightclass lessons on songwriting. Handed me back part of his fee, because he hadn't pulled enough people to justify it.

He was from an age when folk music was so vital that the establishment decided hw was dangerous and got the MI5 to tap his phone. Not much chance of an MBE there!

I wish I'd known him better. he was a giant - intellectually, spiritually, artistically and humorous with it!

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Northerner
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 10:20 AM

Never had the opportunity to see him, but played some of his LPs, and had one of his songbooks. RIP Ian.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 10:58 AM

I think I only saw the IC Group live once, in the Swarbrick days, but many of my colleagues in Birmingham in the '60s were regular fans. I have several of his records among the small British Folk area of my collection (which is mainly jazz, blues, skiffle & US folk). I had assumed he had already "gone before".
RIP

RtS

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Charley Noble
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 11:04 AM

Nice post, Big Al.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Steve Parkes
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 11:06 AM

Many happy memories ... I was a regular at the Jug of Punch for several years in the 70's; If I had to point to a golden age, it was back then. Ian was always easy to approach, and always encouraged up & coming talent (and me!). He'll be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: wassail
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 11:55 AM

Well said Steve, and Big Al. Had some great times at the "Jug", and remember bouncing a baby Ali on my knee. Let's hope that he keeps up his father's work. Mike B.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Desi C
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 12:04 PM

That's such sad news. I followed the Campbell's around Birmingham in the early 70's after buying their 1st album 'presenting the Ian Campbell folk group'A collection of around 20 songs ALL recorded in one day! I later gave that copy to Ian and sister Lorna as amazingly they said they didn't have an original copy. Ian was a dour but very genuine man of dry humour. The first time I met him at The Station pub in Kings Heath and asked him for an autograph, he made me play a game of darts for it!
They were probably the most underrated folk group in the country staying in unfashionable Brum. But they stayed fiercly loyal to it all their career. It's a very sad day indeed, I'll miss him. R.I.P

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: The Sandman
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 12:41 PM

rest in peace, I met him when he was living near Kilkenny in Ireland, I liked his singing, and the IC folk group

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 12:52 PM

Very sad news ~~ one of the great names in British folk.

Adieu, Ian

~Michael~

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 01:32 PM

Very sad indeed. I still buy their vinyl when I find it in 2nd hand shops! And some of Ian's songs are among my favourites. RIP!

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Sheena Wellington
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 02:23 PM

One of my influences and a vital part of my teens and early twenties, so I am very sad to hear of his death.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Anne Neilson
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 04:12 PM

Sad news indeed -- A formative influence for many in the 70s, a fine singer and songwriter and, from all accounts, a man who stayed true to his roots.

All thanks to Ian for the music and the songs, and condolences to his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: DrugCrazed
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 06:29 PM

I just heard at the Anti-Cap roadshow. Kind of hoped it wasn't true.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Betsy
Date: 24 Nov 12 - 08:27 PM

Top man - God bless.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Little Robyn
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 02:47 AM

Very sad.
I met Ian and the group at Laycock FF in 1972 and I have a lovely memory of them dressed in fancy dress. Ian made a lovely Henry VIII!
Robyn

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 05:06 AM

As a youngish mandolin player in the 60s, I was greatly impressed by Ian & The I.C Folk Group...loved their live 'sound' & the rapport they had with the audience...learned a lot, just watching & listening. A great loss to Music & folk in particular. My sincere condolences to his Family & Friends.
                         Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 05:13 AM

Sad news indeed. I grew up listening to Ian's music, learning some of his songs. Rest in peace, lighting a candle.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Vic Smith
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 06:37 AM

The Ian Campbell Folk Group
Ian Campbell Folk Group
[l-r]John Dunkerley, Dave Swarbrick, Ian Campbell, Lorna Campbell, Brian Clark.

Very sad.
I met Ian and the group at Laycock FF in 1972 and I have a lovely memory of them dressed in fancy dress. Ian made a lovely Henry VIII!
Robyn
IAN CAMPBELL as Henry VIII at Lacock & Chippenham Festival

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Dave Sutherland
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 06:45 AM

Very sad news indeed. As well as doing a lot to further traditional song Ian wrote some fine songs of his own and the group were instrumental in introducing us to a lot of the up and coming songwriters (who are now household names) of the day. I still have their 45rmp of "The Times They Are a'Changing"

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: scouse
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 07:02 AM

Only saw him once when he turned up unexpectedly at the Tonder Festival and gave a great impromptu performance at the workers Curry night on Monday. Very impressed, R.I.P. Ian.

As Aye,

Phil.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: doc.tom
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 07:29 AM

Sad news. The group were one of the first pro. outfits I ever saw working - at their club in Brum. (One of they new-fangled folk club things). R.I.P.
TomB

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: threelegsoman
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 07:31 AM

Having read of Ian's passing yesterday here, I have uploaded The Cutty Wren which is a song he covered as a tribute to him. His version of this song was the first time I have heard it.

The Cutty Wren (Including lyrics and chords)

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,joe molloy
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 09:57 AM

RIP Ian.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Mike Yates
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 10:04 AM

Very sad news. I once remember being with him when Peta Webb was singing and Ian turned to me and said something to the effect that wasn't it wonderful that there were now so many really good singers on the scene. That is how I will remember him - a good, kind and supportive man.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Musket
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 10:28 AM

Thinking on, it was when I was doing music O Level many moons ago that our school music department bought a set of Ian Campbell Folk Group score books. That, together with my big brother's venture into folk at the same time and coming home with Ewan McColl, A L Lloyd and, yes, Ian Campbell albums got me interested in a music which led to great friendships, a way of life almost and lots of joy over the last 40 years.

Ian Campbell was one of the unknowing architects of that, and for that I am eternally grateful.

RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Sivart
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 02:48 PM

A Gentleman and scholar. He who would probably favour a ripple at his passing, but deserves a wave!! RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,RWJ
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 03:37 PM

Fond memouries of the Jug at Digbeth Civic Hall. RIP Ian

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,martyn phillips
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 05:27 PM

My father (Dave Phillips) was a member of the group for a while. I don't ever remember a time without Ian. I'm sad you've gone. say hello to my dad from me!

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Big Al Whittle
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 05:42 PM

I remember your Dad very well. Martyn. he was a lovely singer. I used to see him at the Star Club on the ringway. frequently at the same table at the front as Mick Hipkess and the other members of Drowsy Maggie.

Tommy Dempsey used to go there as well. I got a booking after Ewan MacColl put one of my songs in his New City Songster, but I was already kicking against the pricks when it camr to trad music even then. I died on my arse.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Nov 12 - 11:29 PM

I loved Ian's singing, and Lorna's. And as someone said above, having both John Dunkerley and Swarb in the group was really icing on the cake.

I used to get up to Digbeth Civic Hall occasionally, from Kidderminster when I was home from Uni in Manchester. My regular local was the Boat Club in Stourport-on-Severn, and Dave Phillips was a pretty regular guest, as a solo. One of my favourite recordings of the Campbells was The Bells of Rhymney; Dave's voice was prominent. My recollection is that he'd been forced out of the group with the addition of Brian Clark who married Lorna, but I wasn't privy to any real information.

I'm sorry I didn't know Ian personally - it sounds like I really missed something. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Desred
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 04:41 AM

So very sad to hear the news that a great folk singer has passed away.

Over the last few years, after he had returned to Brum, we've had the privilege of sitting with Ian from time to time in local song sessions in Kings Heath, Birmingham, when he would come along with his son, David. He liked nothing better than hearing some of his own songs sung and no doubt we will be singing some more when we meet up next week.

Like so many others in Birmingham, we loved going to the Jug O'Punch club in Digbeth back in the late 60's/early 70's and having a great night with the Ian Campbell Folk Group.

We were lucky to see him in his final live appearance at the Moseley Folk Festival a few years ago and could hear his mum, Betty, singing along at the back of the stage.

Memories flood back - thanks Ian and keep singing and chuckling up there!

Des & Margaret

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: marion.h
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 05:37 AM

Ian was my introduction to folk music...been there ever since.loved the whole family..Dave and Betty(Ian's mom and dad) were so supportive when we started singing and later when the boys were starting to hit the big time used to send UB40 promo stuff to our boys. So sad about Ian he will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Anglo
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 06:53 AM

(
Apologies for my anonymous post above - apparently I had tossed my cookie.
John Roberts
)

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 07:06 AM

A legend of the Brum folk scene. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,terry Barrett
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 11:48 AM

Lots of great memories of Ian used to stay at his house many years ago when I was mates with Ali very dry sense of humour never knew if he wad being serious or joking but always very kind to me .did use to get the hump sometimes though when me Ali and sometimes Duncan played up s bit at the jug .happy days

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 03:00 PM

The ICFG recording of "Bells of Rhymney" circa 1964 is an example of technology following art as the "if, if, if, if" sounds just like a CD skipping. Loved the ICFG and played something from them nearly weekly on my Sunday Hampton, VA USA folk radio show (90 minutes long) in 1998-99. I also had the privilige of introducing them to both Stringsinger on this board and George Grove currently of the Kingston Trio.

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: GUEST,Philippa
Date: 26 Nov 12 - 07:06 PM

sad to hear this news
I am yet another person who grew up listening to and learning songs and tunes from the Ian Campbell folk group; many of the songs are still in my repetoire and I play Battle of the Somme which I learned off an ICFG album

condolences to friends and family

Subject: RE: Obit: Ian Campbell, Birmingham
From: Essex Girl
Date: 27 Nov 12 - 07:51 AM

How sad, the Ian Campbell group were one of the first folk groups I heard back in the 60's, and that evening, upstairs in a pub in Harlow, gave me a love of folk music which has lasted me all of my life. RIP Ian.