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Obituary - Nick Strutt (UK, 29 Sept.2009)
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Subject: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Greycap Date: 29 Sep 09 - 09:32 AM Friends, Nick died this morning. Roger Knowles |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: MGM·Lion Date: 29 Sep 09 - 09:44 AM Very distressed. Sincere condolences. I didn't know him well, but recall him as a most valued member of my friends' Bob and Carole Pegg's Mr Fox group in the early 1970s. Michael |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: The Sandman Date: 29 Sep 09 - 09:52 AM From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For other uses, see Nick Strutt (disambiguation). Nick Strutt Origin England Genres folk music Years active 1970-Present Notable instruments Mandolin [edit] Profile Nick Strutt Nicholas Charles Strutt, 8 October 1946, Upminster, Essex, England. A talented British country musician, who first played banjo at the age of 15 and then mastered guitar, autoharp, mandolin and bass. In 1965, he relocated to Leeds and graduated from Leeds University in 1970. Between 1966 and 1969, he played in a duo with Roger Knowles, which featured regularly on various radio broadcasts, including the BBC Country Meets Folk, where they sometimes played with Brian Golbey and Pete Stanley as a four-piece unit. Strutt and Knowles played as support for Hank Snow and Willie Nelson on UK appearances, before their influences saw them turn more to seminal country rock. In 1970 Strutt turned fully professional but between 1969 and 1971, he and Knowles played with Natchez Trace. In 1972, they parted amicably with Knowles opting for more traditional music and Strutt favouring the contemporary. He had already joined Bob Pegg and Carole Pegg in the folk rock band Mr. Fox, and, after this highly rated but commercially unsuccessful unit's demise, recorded two excellent duo albums with Bob Pegg. When folk rock waned, Strutt returned to country music, playing regularly around the northern country club scene. In the late 70s, he worked on production and played as a session musician for the now defunct Look label. Here he worked with many artists, especially with Mel Hague but also produced albums for folk singer Alex Campbell and country star Tommy Collins. In the early 80s, he turned more to old-time music again and often worked and recorded with Brian Golbey. He commented that "with the advent of New Country, line dancing and blander performances, our picking and grinning style was regarded as a novelty." During the mid-80s, Strutt played part-time with various units, including a swing quartet, but returned full-time in 1990. He began teaching guitar, mandolin and bass and appeared regularly with Hague's band. He also played old-time music at regular venues with banjoist Tim Howard of the Muldoon Brothers. In 1994, he began working with a trio called Finnegan's Wake. Over the years, Strutt has refused to be pigeonholed and his mandolin playing is unique. He acknowledges the influence of Bill Monroe and John Duffey but confesses: "I was never any good at stealing licks accurately, so I made up my own; copying any instrument I liked be it trumpet, dobro, clarinet or trombone." He runs jam sessions in Leeds, which often feature 20 musicians on numerous different instrument |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: Sugwash Date: 29 Sep 09 - 10:00 AM A very fine musician, I remember being mesmerized by him and Bob Pegg in a draughty barn of a folk club in Yorkshire. Condolences to his family and friends. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Spleen Cringe Date: 29 Sep 09 - 10:03 AM Sorry to hear this. I love his work with Bob Pegg. My condolences to his family and friends. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Gadaffi Date: 29 Sep 09 - 11:04 AM We had he and Bob Pegg booked on a number of occasions at Birmingham University's folk club (when it had one) in the 1970's. He struck me as very personable and easy to identify with. Sad to hear of his passing. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: 12barblues Date: 29 Sep 09 - 11:10 AM RIP Nick. He leaves wonderful memories of the Bluegrass nights and the Sunday lunchtime sessions at the Grove in Leeds in the 80's. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Cliff Healey Date: 29 Sep 09 - 11:18 AM Many fond memories of Nick & Roger both as a duo & as Natchez Trace (got the album). Condolences to his family. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Gordon Tyrrall Date: 29 Sep 09 - 11:27 AM Surprised and very sorry to hear that.I must admit I lost touch since he moved away from Leeds - had he been ill, or was it unexpected? Anyway, I knew him well in the late 70s and 80s and did some gigs with him.He played a lovely Gibson 1920s A-series mandolin, and was exceptional on it.Good guitarist too. When I knew him he was leading a rather bohemian lifestyle from a dowdy flat on Harehills Road.As I was very green at the time I found this exciting - he was very fond of the weed, but smoked and drank enthusiastically whenever the opportunity arose.He was great company - immensely likeable,very lively and good fun to be with, almost always with a smile on his face - especially when he was playing music. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: Grampus Date: 29 Sep 09 - 12:06 PM Great memories of Nick in the 70's in the Leeds area playing in various groups/duo's. As Gordon says, lost touch when he moved away. Thanks for all the good times. RIP Nick G. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Greycap Date: 29 Sep 09 - 12:25 PM Gordon, He's been very ill recently, liver failure due to his constant drinking to excess. His passing has not been unexpected, I went to see him in Norfolk four weeks ago, suspecting it may be my last chance to see an old pal. It was. Roger |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: MoorleyMan Date: 29 Sep 09 - 01:20 PM Sorry to hear this but thanks for posting Roger. Condolences to the family. RIP Nick. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: bill\sables Date: 29 Sep 09 - 02:08 PM I had some good memories of Nick including doing extra work at Yorkshire Television. He will be a great loss to the musical world. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt From: GUEST,Ian F. Date: 29 Sep 09 - 06:32 PM A sad day. Many of us knew that Nick was nearing the end of the road but that doesn't make it any easier. He was a talented musician and producer, who also had a deep understanding of his music. He also had a rare talent for enjoying life, and over the years his eccentric bonhomie endeared him to the many of us lucky enough to have worked with him. He leaves many friends who will miss him greatly. Ian F. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Phil Cooper Date: 29 Sep 09 - 10:54 PM I really liked the work he did with Bob Pegg and Mr. Fox on He Came From the Moutain. Sorry to hear he's gone. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: SylviaN Date: 30 Sep 09 - 02:24 AM Very sad. I knew Nick from the folk scene in Leeds in the late 60s/early 70s. Great musician and great fun to be with. My condolences to his family and close friends. Sylvia |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Gordon Tyrrall Date: 30 Sep 09 - 05:09 AM Thanks for the added info Roger - I know you and Ian played a lot with Nick. A couple of fairly trivial memories - he had a dog, a greyhound cross, that he was devoted to and I remember him saying "One of the worst things in life is that she'll go before I do".I'm sure she did, but he cant have been much of an age.He was very clued up musically, and had a kind of muso rhyming slang that he used - so he'd always talk about "florries" rather than "chords" |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Sugwash Date: 30 Sep 09 - 05:32 AM He certainly look like he knew more than a three 'florrie' (Florrie Ford = chord?)trick when I saw him playing. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Neil Winfield Date: 30 Sep 09 - 06:42 AM Fond memories playing (and drinking) with Nick all those years ago. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,David Allan Date: 30 Sep 09 - 07:26 AM Fond mempories of Nick and his awesonme talent from my days in the 60's and 70's with BBC Radio 2 and shows like Country Meets Folk and Country Club. Eccentric yes but he never gave less than 100%. RIP, NIck. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Dom, Manchester Date: 30 Sep 09 - 12:29 PM Have heard some of Nick's recorded output, but never met the man, or saw him play live.Always wanted to, but now sadly too late. Stories of him as a character are legendary around Yorkshire folkie circles. For every comical tale there was always great praise and respect for his stunning musicianship, sounds like he was one of a kind. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,lulu Date: 30 Sep 09 - 08:32 PM a very dear friend for a short time,i will miss his company and friendship,his sense of humour,his laughter and his banjo!!thanks for the good times nick rip x x my love and thoughts to all nicks family. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Kevin Young Date: 30 Sep 09 - 09:40 PM So sorry to hear the sad news. yet another fine musician and character gone from us. I first came across his at the Sunday lunch music gigs run by Barbara and Royce Seabourn ( Gallery). Nick was mainly working with Jeremy Wolstenholme at that time and they often guested at The Beggars Folk Club. I saw him working with Brian Golbey,with Roger Knowles and with Dave Rowinsky but there was never anything to match the buzz that was to be seen, heard and felt at the Grove on a Sunday lunch when Nick together with Ian Firbairn and Paul Buckley would turn the back room of a pub into a world stage. Thank you Nick and be at peace. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Dave Hanson Date: 01 Oct 09 - 02:37 AM Some pictures of Nick on the fRoots website, when I first saw Nick play [ a long time ago ] he was playing mandolin and I was amazed at how someone so young could be so good. A sad loss, Dave H |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,trev king- Date: 01 Oct 09 - 05:18 AM date 01 Oct 09 - 10.10 am Nick and Roger were the fist act at my new club "The Opry" exactly 40 years ago today. God bless you,Nick,and thanks for the memories. Trev King. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Dick Wilcocks Date: 01 Oct 09 - 05:56 AM Fond early memories of Nick: he was a school friend at Palmer's School in Grays, Essex, and I came up to Leeds University more or less at his suggestion, though he was a scientist to my mind and I was into literature. The photo image of him that will stick with me is the one with Bob Pegg on the 1973 album cover. He was very good company, and I remember conversations with him about his whippets, having kids, music, the state of the world and booze. A wonderfully skilled and beautifully individual musician of course. Pity we weren't in touch more recently. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Joe Wright Date: 01 Oct 09 - 06:54 AM Nick did everything he could to push me musically when I was just learning and gave me great advice when I first went on the road, and for that I'll always be so grateful. He made music fun! I've been extremely proud to call Nick one of my closest friends over the last 13 years. Never failed to amaze me musically with some of those 'florries' as Gordon well put it above, and I really enjoyed his stories of life 'on the road'. His enthusiasm was infectious, great to be around. Will miss him always (and his cooking!). Rest in Peace Buddy. Joe |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Steve Warrington Date: 01 Oct 09 - 07:07 AM It was 51 years and 3 weeks ago that I met Nick at school. He wanted to be known as Banjo Nick then. He instantly became a best pal, or, rather, sparring partner. We went to all the Essex clubs, then northern ones after we went to Leeds Uni together. Not altogether surprised by the news,but 51 years of memories form a big chunk of me. This site has already thrown up a few surprises for me. Keep the data coming, folks. I need a way of contacting his kids. We should have input from Essex, Leeds, East Anglia, Castleford, Nottingham, and other centres. Steve Warrington email docwaz@hotmail.com |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Andrew Strutt Date: 01 Oct 09 - 07:18 AM He was a very dear uncle to me and always managed to make me laugh and smile . RIP Uncle Nick xx |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Steve Warrington Date: 01 Oct 09 - 10:57 AM Well done Roger for starting this chain here. It's blooming impressively, and is going to save a lot of phoning. I spoke to Paul (his brother) this morning and he'll be in touch when funeral arrangements are sorted. This mudcat affair seems like a useful forum: Paul is going to use it for dissemination of info. Meanwhile, start getting your brains round the idea of a memorial thrash. Anyone who has played with him (and lived) ought to be there. Watch this space! |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Brian & Sandi Golbey Date: 01 Oct 09 - 12:06 PM It's wonderful to read all the above messages which show the love and respect in which Nick was held. I first met Strutto back in 1965 at Romford Folk Club where he was part of a trio with Janet Kerr and Les Western. Over the years we were always in touch and Pete Stanley and I often played with him and Roger Knowles at gigs and on radio. Around 1980 we formed duo and travelled around quite a bit both here and on the continent. We only made one album together "Last Train South" which is a pity. In later years he often came and stayed with my family and was a great favourite at my local "The Hop Pole" in Beeston, Notts. It's always difficult to put thoughts into words at a time like this but I shall miss him always. Our thoughts and love are with his family at this time. Till we meet again my dear friend RIP. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Guest: Roger Knowles Date: 01 Oct 09 - 12:55 PM For anyone wanting to send a sympathy card to Sue Strutt & the kids, Wesley, Bradley & Holly: 25 Leysholme Crescent Wortley, Leeds 12 I can't find the 'phone number.... Roger Knowles |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Vic Smith Date: 01 Oct 09 - 01:04 PM Two vintage photos of Nick at http://froots.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=4738 |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Richie Bull Date: 01 Oct 09 - 01:09 PM Went to school with him, shared a flat with him, played in loads of bands with him including Natchez Trace and Mr Fox. Made records with him. His contribution to music in general must not be underestimated. He was one of my very earliest inspirations. Would I have become a professional musician in 1966 without his encouragement? Probably not. He will be missed. Would love to hear from any old friends who knew us both - especially in Leeds. Anyone remember the Natchez Trace farewell gig in Pately Bridge? Richie Bull www.underwaterfilming.co.uk |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Richie Bull Date: 01 Oct 09 - 01:17 PM Steve W and Roger K - give me a call about a bash for Nick. Richie |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Mike Greenwood Date: 01 Oct 09 - 01:41 PM I met Nick when we both arrived at Leeds University (as well as Steve W). He was great company from the beginning. We shared a flat (with Dave Harkess) where I remember Roger Knowles coming round to practice with Nick. Nick introduced me to lots of music which was previously unknown to me and I have never lost a love of much country music since then. We had many great nights in the clubs in Leeds. He was a wonderfully talented musician of great versatility but he will probably best be remembered for his remarkable mandolin playing. He will be greatly missed by many people. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,wezley strutt Date: 01 Oct 09 - 02:02 PM please keep looking at these pages 4 details of the funeral and wake . Thank you 4 the messages wezley strutt x |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Stuart Duffy Date: 01 Oct 09 - 02:02 PM Very sad news indeed. Tim Howard informed me today. I worked with Nick in the 70's, he produced an album for me and knew him for many years. Great talent. RIP mate. Stuart |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,wezley struttt Date: 01 Oct 09 - 02:06 PM Please keep looking at these pages 4 info on the funeral and wake thank you 4 the messages w strutt |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Jean(eanjay) Date: 01 Oct 09 - 03:00 PM I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Penny Mulholland Date: 01 Oct 09 - 03:00 PM As cousins, Nick and I grew up together in Upminster. He was so bright, clever and funny, always up to some mischief, a shooting star who fell to earth far too soon. He once said to me that he had done nothing for which he would be remembered - all your messages prove how wrong he was. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Brad Strutt Date: 01 Oct 09 - 04:23 PM If anyone has any photos of Nick, please email me them at bradjaja@hotmail.com thanks |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Brad Strutt Date: 01 Oct 09 - 04:29 PM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3D8GOsNZD88 |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: Tyke Date: 01 Oct 09 - 04:48 PM Here you go Brad Bob Pegg & Nick Strutt Gypsy Stomp |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Ian F. Date: 02 Oct 09 - 04:40 AM Had an e-mail from Doug Mortar, another former member of the Grove sunday lunchtime squad who is now living in Denmark. He has asked me to pass on his condolences to Sue and the family. Ian F. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST Date: 02 Oct 09 - 10:17 AM How very sad to learn that we will never again relish his side-splitting humour nor marvel at his daring, outrageous behaviour. That infectious enthusiasm of his, that scathing, lacerating wit which sprang nimbly from his impudent, chirpy gob, is lost to us now. Nick's baby face belied both an impish, quicksilver personality and an joyously accomplished musical ability, either of which always brought instant good cheer. I have nothing but fond memories of him. We first met as students at Leeds Uni, where he was 'Agric' Nick Strutt for a year, before changing direction, from the science path which Dick Wilcocks expected him to follow to the artistic path which truly formed him. We were lodged at the Grand Hotel, Harrogate in the autumn term of 1965, awaiting completion of our new Hall of Residence. It was at the Grand Hotel where the antics of the rascally Strutt/Warrington/Wilcocks trio from Essex first came to my notice. In Nick's early days at Leeds University he was saved from expulsion by Jack Straw, our local Students Union rep. I dimly remember his very early partnership with Roger Knowles (well done, loyal Roger, for sticking with our pal), and the odd trips up to Middlesborough or Billingham to see him perform. In 1966, when hewere living with Mike G and Dave H on Cardigan Road, Leeds, he hooked up with Hugo McGill and Eric Bell, who used to come round with him and crash out at my shared student house. Ritchie Bull became a good mate, also through Nick, and later Bob Pegg too. The last time I saw Nick play was at the Shoulder of Mutton in Castleford, at a bash celebrating his 55th birthday, a unforgettable musical afternoon and evening. The last time I actually spent time in his company was around 2003, when he had moved in with Hugo and Dodie McGill in Caistor. I spent a wonderfully idle week there with them. The occasional rambling late-night phone-calls of recent years revealed a sorry state of affairs, but he retained his ability to amuse so wonderfully well that they couldn't be begrudged. The sparkle in his soul still twinkled bright, he never lost his breath-taking ability to shock, and he bore a enduring loyalty towards old friends which was a pleasant surprise. Two years ago, to my intense regret, I allowed this contact slip. RIP Nick. If you only knew how greatly you are missed. Bengo. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Bev Williams Date: 02 Oct 09 - 11:13 AM Smoke and beer, jokes and tears.. and hot music. Thanks. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Ron Darnbrough Date: 02 Oct 09 - 11:51 AM The end of a very talented life. Nick worked with many pub bands around the Leeds district and I had some great nights singing with him. He always knew how to get the best out of a tune. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Paul Buckley Date: 02 Oct 09 - 12:12 PM There was never a dull moment with Nick.On arrival at a gig,if we got there,he would plug in his old vox amp which he knew wouldn't work.After 10 minutes or so he would hit it in a particular spot,if this failed he'd pick up the soldering iron he had already heated up and start taking it to pieces.Hovering somewhere between pleasure and danger it was always fun.Always an entertainer,both on and off stage,he could light up the room by walking in.Now he has gone and,without him and people like him,our rooms and our lives are a little less bright. |
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Subject: RE: Obituary - Nick Strutt 29 Sept. 2009 From: GUEST,Mike Abbott Date: 02 Oct 09 - 03:16 PM I first had the pleasure of seeing Nick work way back in the early 80s with The Country Tones Roger Knowles and Dave Rowinski. His ability to sing those high tenor harmonies always amazed me. A great musician with a vast knowledge of music that he was always willing to share. In later years his use of alcohol became legendary. I lost touch with him over ten years ago when he left Leeds and I moved to Oxford. To-days young musicians are poorer for not having Nick around. |
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